'The Wales Action Plan for the recovery of Curlew' officially launched

"It seems like a long time since I attended the first meeting in Builth Wells on the 24th January 2018 to discuss the plight of the curlew in Wales, and how it could possibly be saved from extinction by 2033 - the very real, predicted deadline for the last breeding curlew in Wales", says Rachel Evans, Director for Wales at the Countryside Alliance.

Since then, Countryside Alliance Wales has relished in being part of an exceptional working group, surrounded by expertise in curlew conservation with a shared determination to work together in various guises to do our utmost to conserve this iconic bird. Rachel has been part of a group that have secured two Ministerial meetings and have put endless hours in to what we can now present to you with Ministerial approval; "The Wales Action Plan for the recovery of Curlew" which was officially launched today, 22nd November 2021, by the Minister for Climate Change, Julie James MS.

It goes without saying that the achievement of the group to date would not have been as successful without the excellent ambassadorial role played by Mark Isherwood MS for North Wales, as the Welsh Parliament's "Species Champion" for the curlew. Mark has been consistent in his approach of support and has raised the plight of the curlew at the Senedd at every given opportunity, whilst giving his time and enthusiasm to the group whenever asked.

It really has been a great team effort, and I applaud everyone for their role in this unique partnership.

Image above by Mandy Mills