FHT Priority Ponds Scheme

Priority ponds are waterbodies that have a particularly high conservation value: usually because they support important freshwater species or rare community types. These ponds can be permanent or seasonal waterbodies and can span a wide size range: from one metre squared to two hectares.

Volunteers can now get involved by conducting a Priority Pond Assessment Survey (PASS) to identify a potential priority pond.

For more information check out the FHT Priority Ponds Scheme pages.

Big Butterfly Count 2024

Butterflies are an important indicator species for biodiversity health, and because their short lifespans is quick to respond to environmental changes such as global heating.

Butterfly Conservation is running its annual Big Butterfly Count again this year, a UK-wide survey aimed at helping assess the health of our environment simply by counting the amount and type of butterflies (and some day-flying moths) that can be seen. Please take some time out to take part in this vital annual count (and if you snap any good shots be sure to get them uploaded to iNaturalist too!).

This Allotment: Stories of Growing, Eating and Nurturing

After a visit to the Molescroft Grange Community Allotments this week by MWN, it was only fitting that the daughter of one of our founding members released a wonderful book “This Allotment” edited by Sarah Rigby.

This Allotment brings together thirteen brilliant contemporary writers in a glorious celebration of these entirely unique spaces: plots that mean so much more than the soil upon which they sit.

Make biodiversity an election priority

We know that not everyone wants to talk about politics, or the election, but one of the best ways to campaign for change that impacts biodiversity, and our local wildlife landscape, is to let those who are keen to secure your vote, what your expectations are for them.

The Yorkshire Rewilding Network has a great piece about how to engage over the election cycle!

YRN would like your help to tell every political candidate in Yorkshire:

  • how important nature recovery is
  • how rewilding can play a massive part in that recovery
  • that you want government policies and action that enable nature to thrive

Read the full article here. And don’t forget your photo ID on polling day!

Transform eco-anxiety into eco-action

If environmental concerns feel overwhelming, engaging in personal eco-action can be a constructive approach. Springwatch and the Open University are interested in a piece of citizen science research with people their sharing experiences of eco-anxiety and eco-action. Volunteers are invited to explore, participate, and contribute to making a difference.

This initiative aims to foster a deeper connection with nature through various transformative actions. From hands-on activities to mindful moments in nature, discover practical ways to manage eco-anxiety while contributing to environmental protection and enhancement.

Check out the Springwatch page, or download the Mindful Moments booklet online.