Major Conservation Milestone: Land Expansion

YACWAG has significantly expanded its conservation efforts through the purchase of two additional fields on Congresbury Moor. This brings total ownership at Biddle Street SSSI to 60 acres across 11 fields.

This site, designated for its rare wetland habitats, has been gradually assembled since YACWAG’s first purchase in 1999. The newly acquired land completes a continuous block, enhancing its ecological value.

The expansion is expected to:

• Double hunting grounds for species such as barn owls and kestrels
• Enable biodiversity improvements across a larger, connected habitat
• Strengthen influence over local land and riverbank management

Plans include guided walks, habitat improvements and volunteer engagement.

Development of Congresbury Moor Reserve

The enlarged reserve creates a cohesive landscape with stronger conservation impact. YACWAG will maintain public access via a permissive riverside path, while introducing measures (fencing and hedging) to protect livestock and wildlife.

Future developments include:

• Tree planting and habitat restoration
• Improved accessibility, including disabled access
• Creation of a nature trail

The project was made possible partly through a legacy donation, demonstrating how strategic funding and habitat offset initiatives can support conservation growth.

Celebrating Wetlands and Community Engagement

World Wetlands Day (2nd February) was marked with events celebrating the importance of wetland ecosystems. The timing aligned with YACWAG’s new land acquisition, reinforcing its conservation mission.

Members and local representatives participated in a guided walk, highlighting both community involvement and the ecological importance of wetlands for biodiversity and human wellbeing.

Education and Youth Involvement

YACWAG continues to support environmental education through activities such as the Big Schools Birdwatch at St Andrew’s School.

Key outcomes:

• Students engaged in bird identification and recording
• Strong participation and enthusiasm from children
• Discovery of high nest-box usage (80% occupancy, above conservation targets)

The initiative helps inspire future conservationists while contributing to local wildlife monitoring.

Knowledge Sharing and Online Resources

Recent updates to YACWAG’s website include:

• Guidance on tick awareness and preventing Lyme disease
• Seasonal insights into winter activity on reserves
• Access to publications and an online shop supporting the charity

These resources aim to educate members while promoting safe and informed engagement with nature.

Talks, Research, and Citizen Science

The winter talks season concluded successfully, covering topics such as ecosystems, moths and bat conservation.

Highlights include:

• Encouraging members to monitor moth populations using loaned equipment
• Updates on bat surveys, noting conservation progress but declining numbers of some species
• Promotion of citizen science initiatives, including upcoming survey opportunities

Plans are already underway for the next season of talks.

Upcoming Events and Activities

YACWAG is organising early morning bird walks during May bank holidays, offering opportunities to observe seasonal birdlife along the Strawberry Line. Check out our Events Calendar for more information on these and other upcoming events.

Additionally, members are invited to participate in a BTO national greenspace survey, contributing to broader ecological data collection using simple tools like smartphones. Further information on how to get involved can be found HERE

Habitat Improvements and Wildlife Support

Efforts to enhance habitats continue through projects such as:

• Installation and replacement of long-lasting nest boxes
• Adaptation of existing boxes to better suit bird species
• Exploration of innovative nesting solutions (e.g., for rare species like black redstarts)

These initiatives improve breeding success and long-term sustainability of local wildlife populations.

Volunteers and Community Contributions

As a volunteer-led organisation, YACWAG relies heavily on community involvement. Current opportunities include:

• Trustee roles to help guide strategy
• Administrative support (i.e. Charity Secretary)
• Practical conservation leadership (e.g. workparty coordination)

A new project (“Swift Action”) aims to install nesting boxes in partnership with local groups, with fundraising underway.

Member Spotlight and Community Building

A volunteer profile section highlights the contribution of members like Petrina Daws, showcasing the importance of administrative and behind-the-scenes roles in supporting our conservation work.

YACWAG also encourages community interaction through WhatsApp groups focused on specific interests (e.g. birds, insects, conservation activities), helping members share knowledge and stay engaged.