Nature & Outdoors

In October 2007, the BBC highlighted some of Britain's natural wonders, in the programme series "The Nature of Britain".
The programmes were fronted by Alan Titchmarsh.

The programme's researches unearthed some of the wonderful places and organisations which show up Staffordshire's own natural history.

Watch Video

Watch films from this region - the West Midlands - from the Nature of Britain series on BBC One.  

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STAFFORDSHIRE PROJECTS...

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust

The Staffordshire Wildlife Trust is a voluntary organisation which aims to raise awareness about the natural environment of Staffordshire.

They're a good starting point for both young and old to learn about the local environment and to explore and enjoy the wonders of nature.

They're based at Wolseley Bridge, near Stafford and you can contact them on 01889 880100.

Friends of Wom Brook

Once a familiar sight along our riverbanks, and the inspiration for Ratty in the classic story, The Wind in the Willows; the water vole is now Britain’s fastest declining mammal. 
Loss of suitable habitats, and an increase in the numbers of American Mink – a non-native species which attacks the voles – has led to populations becoming scarce.

But one place where these charismatic native animals are going strong is on the Wom Brook in Wombourne, Staffordshire.

Friends of Wom Brook was set up to manage a stretch of water which runs right through the centre of the village.
The work which started to benefit water vole numbers has led to an increase in all sorts of wildlife here.

The work of The Friends is featured in the "Freshwater" video, which you can watch by clicking on the Freshwater link above.

For further information about voles and find out what is being done to help - from creating new habitats to monitoring predators - contact Anita Ferguson on 01902 892187.

Friends of Riverway

Another local group that you can get involved in to help enhance our freshwater wildlife are the Friends of Riverway. They are improving things along the river running through Stafford town centre. 

They're clearing non-native plants, and making the area a much more user-friendly place – for people and for wildlife.

If you're interested, contact Kate Dewey, Conservation Officer at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust on 01889 880122.

Wild about Tamworth

Wild About Tamworth is a joint initiative between Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and Tamworth Borough Council involves local people in improving the wild spaces of Tamworth for both people and wildlife.

The project started in September 2003 and there are already three nature reserves, with three more planned.

They’re all within an 8 mile radius, and close to homes and schools, so local people have easy access - and volunteers are always needed to help with pond management, nature trails and building otter holts.

Kath Stapley, the "Wild About Tamworth" Project Officer, is based partly at the Wolseley Centre near Stafford, and partly at the Borough Council Offices in Tamworth.

If you would like a programme of conservation tasks, guided walks, talks and events in Tamworth, or further information about any aspects of the project, please telephone Kath on 01889 880100.

Friends of Cannock Chase

Friends of Cannock Chase aims to preserve the unique character for the use of the public and 2007 marks their 6oth anniversary.

Cannock Chase is the largest area of lowland heathland in the Midlands, supporting populations of the rare nightjar, adders and deer.

Volunteers keep the growth of pine trees in check - removing them means a greater variety of wildlife has a chance to thrive.

For further information, you can contact their Chairperson June Jukes on 01543 571241.

Growing Gains

Staffordshire schoolchildren can use the woodland on their doorstep as a classroom. 

Forest Schools encourages them to appreciate the natural world and build their confidence in the great outdoors. 

And Growing Gains teaches older children about the life cycle of woodland plants, which they grow themselves. 

The trees will be planted in local forests to prevent dominant species taking over.

Contact Staffordshire Wildlife Trust on 01889 880100 for more info.