Over the centuries many parts of Britain have lost keystone species and habitats through the actions of development industrialisation, persecution and hunting. Many of these lost native species, like the beaver, have a key role as ecosystem engineers creating dynamic wetland resources and habitats. Top predators, such as the lynx and wolf, drive ecological processes. Red squirrels, pine martens and sand lizards are enigmatic species which add value to the natural landscape. In Wales there have been concerted efforts to reintroduce a number of these species contributing to the “Rewilding” of the landscape.
Description
The Conference aims to establish what rewilding is, its historical context and its value as a tool for ecological enhancement and protection. It will explore where rewilding stops and where traditional conservation management practices start. It will outline some of the measures, like species reintroduction, which can be employed to “re-wild” the landscape. Expect lively discussion, healthy debate and passionate speakers, pushing the boundaries of what might be possible in the future.
More information can be found on the CIEEM website.