Wilder Communities 30x30 is a new 3-year project recently launched by Somerset Wildlife Trust and funded through The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Made possible by funds raised by National Lottery players, the project aims to support the development of “Nature Recovery corridors” in South and East Somerset by encouraging local communities to take action for the wildlife right on their doorsteps and help create a resilient, nature-rich landscape for both wildlife and people to enjoy.
Only around 10% of Somerset can currently be classified as being in good natural or semi-natural condition, with species-rich natural habitats supporting abundant and diverse wildlife. Nature Recovery Networks are interconnected habitats operating at a landscape scale and are recognised as an important approach to reversing the decline in nature and restoring ecosystem health — vital to support clean air, water, soils, and providing health and wellbeing opportunities.
Through the new Wilder Communities 30x30 project, Somerset Wildlife Trust will work with local communities to establish the support and resources needed to co-design activities to create more space for wildlife in community spaces, gardens, verges, parks, and schools, joining up pre-existing green spaces and contributing to the Nature Recovery Network.