Europe’s largest wetland conservation project on Anglesey uses hovercraft tractor

The project is part of Europe's largest wetland conservation project, taking shape thanks to the co-operation of local landowners and contractors. By 2013, the aim is to bring 751 hectares of wetlands on Anglesey and Pen Llyn back into peak condition.

Local contractors David Lloyd Contractors are clearing years of sodden, dead vegetation from Cors Castell to breathe new life into this wetland and help ensure that it doesn't dry out in summer. The hovercraft, will be used to carry the cut vegetation away, so that the wildlife habitats are not damaged during the clearing operation.

Once cleared, later this spring, local farmers will bring their stock onto this part of Cors Goch to graze the land as they did years ago, preventing the scrub from smothering the site once again.

Cors Goch
Cors Goch, including Cors Castell, managed by the North Wales Wildlife Trust, is one of Anglesey's special wetlands, known as fens. They depend on peaty soils and a delicate water balance created by the limestone springs that flow into the peat. In the face of climate change, the importance of managing peatlands can't be over-stated. In peak condition, peatlands lock in massive amounts of carbon, which would otherwise be released into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.

With good management, this fen will once again harbour a wealth of rare plants and wildlife, including a great display of marsh gentian in late summer. The peat will not only help store carbon, it will store and purify water.

Justin Hanson, LIFE Project Manager for the Countryside Council for Wales said: "Grazing stopped on this part of Cors Goch around 25 years ago. Now, with the help of local contractors, and their hovercraft, we are clearing years of unwanted growth. After that, local farmers will be able to bring in grazing stock suited to this type of land - traditional, native animals like Welsh Blacks, Herefords or Welsh mountain ponies. "

This project is of international significance. By 2013, the end of the £3.5 million LIFE funded project, the wetlands of Pen Llyn and Anglesey will be fantastic places for people to visit to enjoy their special, tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by nature at its best. And they will also be right back where they belong, in the centre of the local community and economy.

If you are interested in the vegetation cleared from the Anglesey and Pen Llyn wetlands, or in grazing any of the sites, contact Justin Hanson or Dyfed Jones on 01248 672 563.