A MAJOR conservation project to revitalise sand dunes across Wales will kick start their summer work programme next week (w/c 22 June) by carrying out extensive fencing work at Pembrey Burrows.
Sands of LIFE, a project led by Natural Resources Wales (NRW), will restore over 2,400 hectares of sand dunes, across four Special Areas of Conservation, on 10 separate Welsh sites. The project will run until December 2022.
In total, Sands of LIFE have over 2km of chestnut fencing ready to be erected at Pembrey Burrows. This will help protect and control the cattle and ponies which perform the crucial task of grazing the dune grassland. This helps keep the sand dunes open, creating perfect conditions for specialist dune plants and other wildlife to thrive.
Over the last 80 years, open sand has disappeared from Wales’ dunes being replaced by dense grass and scrub. The dunes have become stable and fixed, and rare wildlife has disappeared. This change has been caused by factors such as the introduction of non-native plants, lack of traditional grazing, a declining rabbit population and air pollution.
The Sands of LIFE project will re-profile dunes to create movement in the sand; lower the surface of dried-out slacks to recreate wet habitat; promote sustainable grazing by livestock and rabbits; remove invasive species and scrub and mow dune grassland to encourage wild flowers.
Laura Bowen, Sands of LIFE Project and Monitoring Officer South, said:
“We are looking forward to completing the fencing at Pembrey Burrows which will allow the cattle to continue grazing on site. The work will also include replacing old stiles with new gates, providing easier and safer access for the public.
“The current COVID-19 pandemic is understandably a source of concern for us all. However, we remain hopeful in being able to push ahead with planned work over the coming months to provide our sand dunes with a much-needed boost. Whilst conducting work on our behalf, all contractors will be following the current social distancing guidelines.
“Once restrictions are lifted and these wonderful sand dunes are open to the public again, we also hope to host guided walks and take part in community events.”
Carmarthenshire County Council owns and looks after the Pembrey Burrows Local Nature Reserve.
Simeon Jones, Carmarthenshire Country Council Conservation Officer, said:
“We are very pleased to be part of this exciting project that will benefit these rare sand dune habitats.
The dunes at Pembrey Burrows LNR support many rare plants and invertebrates as well as being a great place to visit where people can enjoy wildlife and the natural world as well being able to spend time outdoors which is so good for our health and wellbeing.”
The project can be contacted at [email protected]
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