Anyone who spends more than a little bit of time outside in the wild and wonderful Yorkshire countryside will already know that – from county to county – we’re home to an absolutely spectacular natural landscape. We’re also home to incredible and important species of birds, mammals and more – meaning that it’s falling to us more than ever to ensure that we protect the wildlife and environment around us so that it may continue to thrive for years, decades and even centuries to come. It’s all about preserving the natural world for future generations – and sadly, some of the natural habitats and wildlife in Yorkshire is at constant threat.
What is Being Done?
There have been a number of important movements undertaken in an attempt to help revitalise and protect the wonderful Yorkshire moors and more besides – for one, there have been recent moves to plant over 10,000 trees in Upper Nidderdale as part of extensive plans to help encourage wildlife to continue thriving. Those involved hope that various species of bird, such as the spotted flycatcher and the cuckoo, will feel safe to live and breed here.
This is just one of many movements taking place, and this particular scheme is undertaken thanks to part-landowners in Yorkshire Water and the Heritage Lottery Fund. Elsewhere in Yorkshire, however, sterling work is being mounted by the likes of the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, or YWT, who regularly lobbies against policies which may affect and harm the natural world around us. This could be anything to do with mass refuse, potential plans for fracking, and more besides – and it’s a continuous job, meaning that they are always on the lookout for supporters and assistance. Volunteering for a service such as the YWT or for the Yorkshire Dales National Park is extremely rewarding – after all, you’re doing your bit to show that you care about the wonderful countryside Yorkshire has to offer as well as all the creatures and critters which call it home.
What Else Can I Do?
Helping natural Yorkshire starts from you – and this can’t be stressed enough. As a seasoned camper, trekker or otherwise, you can start by making conscious decisions about what you do when you’re out and about in the countryside. Responsible camping not only requires you to be careful with any products you may be bringing into the wild with you, but also to be mindful and respectful of any habitats you may be entering into. Dispose of waste responsibly – take it with you – camp in areas which have been specially designated – and if you’d like to get more involved, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is particularly interested in asking volunteers to complete wild surveys for them so that they can better understand what’s happening to the animals that live nearby.
The National Park is particularly concerned about the conservation of birds, plant life and butterflies – and they are requesting volunteers take a few days out of their time to look closely at the natural world around them and to commit to surveys which can be used to help take further action against habitat depletion. Anyone interested in taking part may still be able to do so by emailing wildlifeconservation@yorkshiredales.org.uk directly, and they’ll be given further information on training, what to expect and where they can easily head out and complete surveying for the group. The National Park aims to pair volunteers with local areas of concern, meaning that if you are interested in helping and have a few days to commit to the cause, they’ll be thrilled to hear from you.
Careful Camping and Supporting Local Wildlife
As mentioned, careful camping is where much of your support can start – respect the natural spaces you are heading to – and do ensure that your dispose of any and all of your refuse responsibly. Plastic is not only contributing to the harm of millions of sea creatures – it is also impacting birds, bugs and mammals on dry land, too.
You can volunteer and even apply for membership with the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust to learn more about ongoing events and meetings, where you can find out more about your own personal footprint on Yorkshire nature and how you can help to reverse damage that is being done to the wonderful world around us. Responsible campers, hikers and ramblers care about the homes of animals they pass through – and taking responsibility starts with just a few changes to your camping habits – even starting today!
