Tag: Wilder

A Vison for a #WilderNE

Wilder, the new grassroots activism group, is gaining momentum at present, largely due to the hard work and determination of the passionate young people at its helm. Of late, we have successfully launched our first campaign (#LawsOfTheLand), have featured in a number of media outlets, and have build a substantial following on social media. Successes which look set to continue long into the future. As such, following the successful launch of the Wilder Dorest group, We have decided to create a regional branch right here in the North-East.

The ultimate aim of Wilder, as a whole, is to support wildlife conservation and raise awareness of important environmental issues – something we hope to do via a variety of means, utilising the individual talents of members to make a difference for nature. It is a community born of necessity, of the concerns of the young people behind it and the need for unified action. More than just a group of conservationists clamouring for change, Wilder, we hope, will become a movement – towards a greener and more enlightened Britain. No small task, but something we hope to achieve through a variety of means:

  • By promoting and publicising just causes, on both a local and national scale – making the public aware of any decisions made to the detriment of our wildlife and, hopefully, encouraging positive action to reverse them.
  • By facilitating the campaign efforts of those working to protect wildlife. Something we hope to achieve through a variety of means but not least by; encouraging dialogue with local MPs, by organising events/talks to raise political awareness and by emphasising the power of petitions and social media.
  • And, most importantly of all, by stressing that each and every one of us, young and old, urban, rural or otherwise, has the potential to influence the decisions that impact our wildlife.

When applied to Wilder North-East however, I have decided that these aims are not enough. And despite the fact that we live in an altogether beautiful region, bursting with wildlife, I have reached the sorry conclusion that not enough people care for our local environment. This is something I would like to change and as such, WilderNE will adopt some additional objectives in addition to those listed above:

  • To promote a wider interest in the natural world, and thus inspire action to protect it. Something we hope to do through everything from school visits and youth engagement to “wildlife walks” making use of talented local naturalists to invoke interest in the natural treasures of the North-East.
  • To encourage people to dedicate their time to protecting, studying and conserving nature. Something we hope to achieve through work with local NGO’s to promote volunteer work, while at the same time, encouraging wider participation in everything from beach cleans to citizen science schemes.

The North-East is, in my opinion, the jewel in the crown of wild Britain. Though, like any other place in our day of human ignorance and growing detachment from nature, it faces its fair share of problems. Its landscape and wildlife subject to the same threats as anywhere else in Britain. Because of this, I believe the time has come to give nature in our region a unified, strong and independent voice. And sincerely hope, that WilderNE can accomplish this.

Of course, given the magnitude of the proposed task, I cannot do this alone, and desperately need people from all walks of life to get involved. As such I am hoping, over the coming weeks, to piece together a team of dedicated environmentalists to operate the day to day running of the group. Something which could involve anything, from building our social media presence or writing articles, to promoting Wilder at events. Or, in the future, visiting schools and leading walks to stress the value of nature. The possibilities are endless.

It is not going to be easy, not by a long shot, but if you wish to get involved, please join the Facebook group here or contact me directly. We will need all the help we can get! You can also find us on Twitter for updates and more information.

If young people hope for a greener future, they must act now.

Many people are quick to stereotype the new generation of young people. Branding them lazy, self-obsessed and simply disinterested in current affairs. And, by default, green issues.

The image of detached youths shut away in their rooms, absent care nor worry is, unfortunately, rife in Britain. And the misguided assumption that most young people are content to watch the world go by, detached from the wider issues plaguing our countryside sadly, still commonplace. As is the generalistic assumption that, besides the trail-blazing few, that most young people simply do not care about the environment. A false assumption, but one that prevails nonetheless, in our society. Despite that, in truth, more young people than ever before are now interested in green issues, and many aspire for a brighter future for both the environment and themselves.

From my experience, when asked, the vast majority of young people do care for the environment. For wildlife and, indeed, the future of the very planet on which we all live. At present, more young people than ever before are fighting for a greener future. By speaking out and drawing attention to important issues, or campaigning for just causes. A great deal of these now seek to educate, inspire and inform on green issues. And more still dedicate their time to enact their goals, whether through conservation work, campaigning or by other means. You just need to look at the plethora of dedicated, inspirational young people in the A Focus On Nature group to know that there is hope for the future. And to see that times are, mercifully, changing.

For every one person that takes a stand for a brighter future, however, it is safe to assume that there are ten that do not. People who do not, necessarily, care any less about the environment than their more vocal counterparts. But fail to act nevertheless. It is these people, in our day of ceaseless ecological ignorance, that we need more than ever. These people, the sleeping giants in conservation, ecology, policy and education, that could bring about the future many of them wish for. And these people who, in a day where wildlife finds itself besieged from all sides, who must now stand up and be counted. And while many, to no fault of their own, are unwilling to commit to a career in the turbulent environmental sector, each and all can make a difference. Below are a few thoughts of my own on how you can do just this.

Make yourself heard.

At present, it is easier than ever before to express an opinion and to project important information to a wider audience. Making yourself heard on environmental issues is vital, and at the very least can lead to increased curiosity that may just inspire others to look further into such issues. While, at the same time, it can also actively promote change. In both peoples outlooks, and their actions. Speak to friends, speak to family, and, if the mood takes you, utilise the phenomenon that is social media to inform the world about the causes you care about. Tweet it, Facebook it, Tumblr it, Instagram it. More people than every before are living an online existence, and the likelihood is, that in doing so, at least one person will take notice of you.

Write about it.

This links in with the former point, but for those interested enough to express their thoughts in words, there is a huge audience out there ready to take note of a well-written plea for action. The online realm is a great place to start and nature blogging is growing in popularity at present – with many people inspiring others through their encounters in nature or fanning the flames of action through motivational outpourings. Why not do the same? And remember to share your work far and wide on social media.

On the other hand, you could also proposition local newspapers to offer your views on topical issues, write to your MP to express concern on said issues, or, for those with a particular knack for literature, submit a piece to a popular magazine or mainstream newspaper. Written word has the power to inspire curiosity, intrigue, devotion and rage in equal measure, never forget that, as all can lead to change.

Utilise your talents

Think outside of the box! Many people are not overly confident in broadcasting their views, vocally or in words. Many people, however, do possess unique talents that could allow them to educate or inspire in their own, often quirky way. Can you paint or sketch? Create artwork with a message. Singers? Sing a song with meaning. Athletic? Run for charity, or to raise awareness of your chosen issue. Each person is wonderfully different, and each person is capable of enacting change in their own, unique way. Skydive, serenade or skinny dip, why not do it for a good cause.

Volunteer

Now this is an obvious one, and most people know that, should they wish it, that there are dozens of conservation charities out there ready to accept help. Do it! Build fences, eradicate invasive species, raise money, lead trips, dig ditches, fix footpaths, do whatever you can to contribute to your cause. And for those seeking something different, remember that not all volunteer work has to be physically demanding. Nor for a large NGO. Dedicate time to curate your local museum, utilise your social media and writing skills to contribute to the online presence of a club or group, or venture into schools to inform the next generation of young naturalists. Most people, organisations, schools, and charities, despite not advertising volunteer positions, will gladly accept help. Remember to ask and explain why.

Get into politics

Despite the record turnout, it is likely that if more young people voted in the recent EU referendum, that the disastrous decision to leave may not have come to fruition. That ship has sailed, sadly, but we can learn from it. And getting involved in politics is the perfect way to make a difference on the issues you care about. Read manifestos and join a party you believe in – not who you are told to believe in. Once you have done that, vote in leadership contests and later, local and general elections. Use your vote to make a difference. And, for those wishing to go beyond this, why not lobby your MP? Meet them, write to them, campaign for them. Every little piece of effort really does help.

Do not be afraid to question others

This step really links in with the four mentioned previously but is vital in itself. If you feel that someone has made a dreadful decision, or committed to a dubious course of action, do not be afraid to speak out. Question your MP on their policies, your friends on their views, or even conservation bodies on their choices. Questions raise answers, and answers can sometimes yield positive results. If they do not, and fail to set your worries to ease, then take to social media, write, campaign and get involved in politics. If only to inspire more questions, from others, that may force a different response.

Inspire a friend

This is a difficult one. Many young people will not necessarily possess friends favourably inclined towards the environment, I certainly didn’t until fairly recently. This does not mean they cannot be inspired. Change your planned catch-up to incorporate a more natural setting, and show them first-hand the joys of nature. Inform them of the wider implications of their choices, question their views and educate them. More importantly, ensure them that they, themselves, can make a difference. Start the process anew.

Join a community

Life can be a lonely affair for young people interested in nature, and there are many horror stories associated with this. Though it does not have to be this way. Now, more than ever, there are dozens of groups where you can meet like-minded individuals, to share your views, network and make friends. Join a community and get involved. There are some wonderful ones of there, that meet a host of needs and cover a vast array of interests. A Focus On Nature (again), that provides a hub for all nature lovers. Wilder – for those looking to campaign, and more niche groups such as Next Generation Birders, for those fond of avian pursuits. There are, of course, many more than this. All of which can be found during a brief search of the internet. Or, in the case of local groups, advertised in a whole manner of odd places. Keep your eyes peeled.

Act Now

Now, this is the biggy, and the culmination of all points mentioned previously. Whatever you choose to do, whether you take up writing for nature, uncover a spark for online campaigning, or a particular interest in politics, please act now. As I have said before, every little action can help. What does not help, is waiting for others to enact change on your behalf. If you care about something, and this does not apply solely to green issues, then shout about it. Raise a clamour, educate, inspire, or take up a placard. Action is always better than inaction, and whatever you do, however small, will contribute to a brighter future.

The New Forest is degrading, and Bambi is not to blame.

It may surprise you to learn that the New Forest, one of our few remaining relics of a more holistic Britain, is crumbling. From the inside out. The forest, like so many others in our day and age, plagued by overgrazing. The only difference being that, in this case, unlike other wooded areas continuously degraded through grazing pressure – the Caledonian Pine woods of Scotland, for example – that Bambi is not to blame. And the real culprit is one you may not immediately suspect.

The New Forest is unique among British woodlands. Comprising an intriguing mix of ancient woodland and open heath which, together, provide the ideal conditions for biodiversity to flourish.  Indeed, the forest itself is home to some 92% of Britain’s reptile species, with Slow Worms, Adders and, increasingly threatened Sand Lizards still, mercifully, abundant. It also boasts an incredibly diverse floral community: of ancient Beech trees and towering Oaks, which cast their imposing shadows over an understory rich Holly and Hazel. The botanical elements that make up this great wood, irresistible to woodland birds. Including red-listed species of conservation concern. And, on a good day, one may bear witness to Honey Buzzards pirouetting above the canopy, Lesser-Spotted Woodpeckers foraging amid the daintiest of fronds, or, at dusk, Nightjars hawking the heathland clearings. The New Forest is, by all accounts, the jewel in the crown of our modern woodland realm. Albeit one that is being gradually tarnished.

As well as the creatures listed above, and more amphibians, fungi and endearing invertebrates than you can shake a stick at, the New Forest is also, and quite famously, home to ponies. Ponies that have roamed in the shade of the forest for centuries. And, through the practice of “commoning”, have greatly contributed to the forests current visage. Their persistent grazing helping maintain a favourable condition for much of the wildlife that persists there today. At least until now.

In the present day, the ponies that have for centuries, shaped this special place, are a major factor in its continued demise. Their population soaring from c2000 individuals during the 1960’s, to an estimated 5000 today. An increase aided, in no small part, by subsidies which – under the Under the Verderers’ Grazing Scheme (VGS) – can pay each farmer up to £68.00 per pony, annually. The problem only bolstered by yet more financial incentives for commoners to increase their stock, with a new system of payments, which offers £269 per pony, coming into force just last year. Under the EU-funded Basic Payment Scheme (BPS).

These payments – which effectively reward farmers for increasing the size of their herds – are doubtless a leading factor in the forests current battle with overgrazing. And have, for the large part, gone relatively unscrutinized for many years, until now. With multiple sources now voicing their concerns over the current system, and the impact it is having on the forest ecosystem. And many veteran trees now feeling the effects of an unsustainable number of ponies.

Among those critical of the current schemes is prominent naturalist Chris Packham, who recently expressed his concerns to The Guardian. Warning that if action is not taken to combat overgrazing now, that “there will be no New Forest tomorrow“. While Sam Manning, the founder of the up and coming conservation campaign group ‘Wilder’, has also expressed his concerns on the matter. Echoing worries about the forest and the damage being brought about by its wayward ponies:

“We know that ponies have a grazing intake three times higher than deer. Deer numbers are at a historic low of 2000, while ponies are over 5000. The stripping of bark on beech trees photographed in the guardian article is not the result of ponies as some have suggested. The forestry commission has evidence that it is certain individual ponies. A meeting has been had on this issue by the verderers (minutes available on their website ) and still, nothing has been done about the issue.

There is a lack of political will amongst the managing organisations in the forest, about solving the issue of overgrazing. If this problem is not solved, the long-term condition of the New Forest’s rare and treasured habitats will decline further.“

Sam, who I have spoken to at length about the matter, has also stressed that neither Wilder, nor himself, condone a cull of ponies. Instead drawing attention to the other means by which grazing impact may be reduced:

“Numbers could be reduced by restricting breeding (which is controllable) and overseeing a generational phase out of the current levels. Allowing ponies to live out their natural lives, alternatively, individuals could be sold. Grazing is essential to the new forest ecosystem, too little and habitats scrub over, but too much – and we see the damage to biodiversity that is occurring now, there needs to be a scientifically advised cap on pony numbers, and commoners should be financially incentivised to maintain an optimum grazing level.“

Opinion

Like any issue that clashes with agricultural, and indeed, cultural interests, this is not an argument that is going to vanish anytime soon. Though, to me, the course of action is clear. Pony numbers must be kept in check: both for the sake of the unique ecosystem at the heart of the New Forest, and the many scarce species that call it home. While subsidies have, and continue to, bring about positive change for the environment, they should not be issued absent thought. And their impacts should be properly thought out. Something which, in this case, was clearly not the case. The New Forest is a bastion of life amid our increasingly degraded countryside, and it cannot be allowed to fall into ruin. Commoners must manage their stock appropriately, to mitigate the negative repercussions of overgrazing, and I cannot help but feel that a reevaluation of payment criteria may well be necessary. Both for the New Forest, and other areas similarly plague by overgrazing elsewhere in the UK.

This is an issue that, unlike many others, may be resolved with a few similar changes. Alterations that, I hope, would help reach a beneficial solution for both the embattled forest and those who have worked and managed it for generations. Though only time will tell, I guess.

If you would like to get involved with Wilder, you can check them out on Twitter (@Wilder_UK) or join the movement on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wilderUK

How YOU can help the environment post Brexit.

Dr Rob Sheldon recently published an excellent blog post on what average joes like you, and me, can do to safeguard the environment post-Brexit. The piece can be found here, I would really advise everyone to give it a read.

In it, Rob sets out a number of things each and every one of us can do to ensure our voices are heard, and the topics we care about – whether that be conservation, protective legislation or anything else – are discussed. Now more than ever it is imperative that we raise a clamour of the kind never before seen in Britain. It is important that we unify, pool resources and provide a powerful voice for the environment which looks set to be swept under the rug once more – with our politicians once more turning a blind eye to the needs of our embattled countryside. As such, I have included below, courtesy of Rob, a list of eight things you all should consider in the coming months. With an extra addition by myself.

1)      If you aren’t a member or supporter of a conservation or environmental NGO, then consider joining one. RSPB, The Wildlife Trusts, Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth have a proven track record in influencing wildlife and environmental policy.

2)      If you are a member of a wildlife or conservation NGO, then please write to the Chief Executive asking them to take immediate and positive action for a post-Brexit environment. Ask them to join forces with other NGOs and organisations to provide a large unified voice that can’t be ignored.

3)      Join the Green Party as the only political party in the UK that has the environment at its core.

4)      Write to your MP and explain your concerns for the future of the UK environment and that you want to see the environment at the heart of the Brexit negotiations. Find your MP here.

5)      Get active on social media? Do you use Twitter or Facebook? If so make regular contributions about the environment. Follow the NGOs and leading environmental figures and help spread a positive message.

6)      The Environmental Audit Committee have recently launched an inquiry into the future of the natural environment after the EU referendum. Take part, either by contributing directly or asking any NGOs that you are a member of to put across your views.

7)      Zach Haynes has recently set up a petition on the UK Government and Parliament website asking for strong environmental and wildlife laws to be adopted. If you agree, then simply sign it.

8)      Talk to your family, friends and work colleagues about the natural environment and how wonderful it is. Help create a sense of pride in our natural environment. Yes, it could be better, but it could also be worse.

9) Join us at Wilder, a new wildlife-specific, grassroots campaign set up to lobby support for the natural world. An organisation which, though in its infancy, is helmed by a dedicated group of young conservationists – each passionate about preserving the laws that safeguard our wildlife. I will be tweeting and blogging from their accounts for the foreseeable future, and look forward to sharing a lot more excellent article, such as the one above, in the very near future.