Bodmin Moor Conservation & Wildlife project

Brought to you by Moor Wild

Project Overview

The Bodmin Moor Wildlife and Conservation Project was delivered by Moor Wild (Previously St Breward wildlife and conservation group) to increase community engagement with the natural and cultural heritage of Bodmin Moor. The project brought together local residents, volunteers, experts and schoolchildren to explore, monitor and celebrate the area’s unique ecology, landscapes and industrial heritage.

Working across a range of locations including Sunnybank Farm, Wenford Bridge, Hamatethy Common and St Breward Churchyard, the project focused on developing local skills in ecological surveying and monitoring while encouraging people of all ages to connect with nature and heritage. A series of walks, workshops and creative activities culminated in a community BioBlitz Open Day that showcased learning and encouraged wider participation.

What took place?

A programme of guided walks, surveys and practical workshops was delivered throughout the project. Community members took part in specialist training sessions led by ecologists, naturalists and environmental experts, learning surveying and monitoring techniques across a variety of habitats including moorland commons, churchyards, streams, Cornish hedges and temperate rainforest. Participants also explored Bodmin Moor’s peatlands and gained a greater understanding of their environmental importance.

The project examined the area’s industrial heritage through a series of China Clay workshops. Participants followed the historic clay trail from Stannon to Wenford Dries, explored the relationship between geology, industry and landscape, and created artwork inspired by their discoveries.

St Breward Primary School took part in outdoor learning sessions, giving children the opportunity to investigate woodland habitats, learn about local wildlife and record their observations through drawing and painting activities.

The programme concluded with a BioBlitz Open Day, bringing together residents, volunteers, families and specialists for a day of wildlife recording, talks, storytelling, exhibitions and hands-on activities. The event provided an opportunity to share findings, celebrate local heritage and encourage even more people to get involved in caring for Bodmin Moor.

Outcomes

The project increased understanding of both the natural and cultural heritage of Bodmin Moor by equipping participants with practical skills in ecological surveying and monitoring. Community members gained the knowledge and confidence to continue recording species and habitats beyond the life of the project, helping to build a stronger evidence base for conservation activity.

Young people developed a greater appreciation of their local environment through school-based activities, while residents learned about the historical significance of the China Clay industry and its lasting impact on the landscape.

Volunteer participation increased as awareness of local conservation opportunities grew. Information and survey findings were shared with relevant records centres and archives, helping to strengthen understanding of biodiversity and heritage across the area. Creative outputs, display materials and social media updates further extended the project’s reach and created resources that could be used for future engagement activities.

The BioBlitz Open Day attracted strong community interest and encouraged new audiences to engage with Bodmin Moor’s wildlife, heritage and conservation efforts.

Conclusion

The Bodmin Moor Wildlife and Conservation Project successfully brought people together to explore, understand and celebrate the unique landscapes, wildlife and heritage of Bodmin Moor. Through a combination of expert-led training, creative learning and community action, the project strengthened local knowledge, increased participation in conservation activities and inspired a lasting commitment to protecting the area’s natural environment.

The project also helped establish new partnerships, enhanced community wellbeing through outdoor engagement, and left a legacy of skills, resources and monitoring records that will continue to support conservation and heritage initiatives across Bodmin Moor in the years ahead.