I’ve always believed in the power of community to drive real change - and my recent visit to Wild Ground in North Wales was a perfect reminder of just how true that is.
Wild Ground is an incredible environmental conservation charity that works hand-in-hand with local communities to protect wildlife and restore habitats. Funding from the ScottishPower Foundation is enabling them to maintain and improve their nature reserves, run volunteer programmes, and deliver educational outreach connecting people with nature in meaningful ways.
A Day in the Wild
From the moment I arrived at Maes y Grug Nature Reserve, I was struck by the richness of the landscape - and the wildlife it supports. Great crested newts, frogs, snakes… we spotted a few of these elusive creatures as we explored the site. Geraint Hughes, Wild Ground’s Reserves Officer, welcomed us with warmth and enthusiasm, sharing the conservation strategies that keep the reserve thriving.
Geraint’s team showed us how they manage the habitat to support amphibians and other wildlife, even giving us a few tips on tackling overgrowth. Their passion was infectious. It’s clear they care deeply about the land and the creatures that call it home.
We also met some of the volunteers - people who give their time to build hibernacula for reptiles and amphibians, conduct bird and butterfly surveys, and take part in creative outdoor activities. These projects don’t just help the environment - they give volunteers a sense of purpose and connection to nature.
Charley Dutton, the Senior Reserve Lead, told us how the site has seen a steady increase in amphibian populations since it was acquired in 2006. Despite recent challenging weather, their latest survey recorded the second-highest count ever. That’s testament to the team’s dedication and the impact of community-led conservation.
Lunch with a Purpose
Next stop: Alyn Waters. We enjoyed a delicious lunch at Caffi Cyfle, a café run by Wild Ground that’s so much more than a place to eat. It provides valuable work experience for local people, including those with additional support needs. It’s a beautiful example of how Wild Ground integrates social support with environmental stewardship.
Rolling Up Sleeves at Aberderfyn
Our final visit was to Aberderfyn Nature Reserve, where volunteers were hard at work removing invasive plant species. I had the pleasure of chatting with Thomas Jones and Colin Jones, two of Wild Ground’s dedicated volunteers. Hearing their stories and the pride they take in their work was inspiring.
Volunteer numbers have grown significantly at some sites - doubling in size in certain areas - which has made a huge difference in maintaining and improving the reserves. And it’s not just about the environment. Volunteering offers people the chance to learn new skills, boost their mental health, and feel part of something bigger.
A Shared Mission
Throughout the day, I was reminded again and again of the incredible impact Wild Ground is having - not just on the environment, but on the people who care for it. Their work, supported by the ScottishPower Foundation, is a shining example of what we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose.
I left feeling inspired, hopeful, and deeply grateful to everyone at Wild Ground for their unwavering commitment to conservation.
Join Us in Making a Difference
At the ScottishPower Foundation, we’re proud to support charities like Wild Ground. Their work shows how community-led initiatives can protect vital habitats and species while enriching lives.
If you’re looking for a way to give back, connect with nature, or simply make a difference - consider volunteering or supporting Wild Ground. You’ll be helping to safeguard our natural world for future generations.
To learn more, visit Wild Ground’s website.