Kent Wildlife Trust

I write this from my personal experience having worked closely with Kent Wildlife Trust (KWT) - it is at the forefront of rewilding and conservation in the UK, spearheading transformative projects that restore ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and promote community well-being. Their ambitious Wilder Kent 2030 strategy aims to increase wildlife abundance and climate resilience across 30% of Kent’s land and sea, setting a benchmark for conservation efforts nationwide.

A flagship initiative under this strategy is the Wilder Blean project, which reintroduces European bison to West Blean and Thornden Woods near Canterbury. These bison, absent from the UK for thousands of years, act as ecosystem engineers, naturally managing woodlands by creating clearings and promoting plant diversity. Their presence has already led to the birth of calves, signalling a thriving and self-sustaining population. To accommodate their movement and ensure public safety, the UK’s first ever bison bridges are under construction, allowing these majestic creatures to roam freely while visitors enjoy the ancient woodlands from above.

KWT’s commitment to rewilding extends beyond bison. They have successfully reintroduced species like the red-billed chough, which bred in Kent for the first time in 200 years, thanks to extensive habitat restoration and conservation grazing. Additionally, the reintroduction of beavers at Ham Fen has revitalised wetland ecosystems, demonstrating the profound impact of returning keystone species to their natural habitats. They have introduced Iron-Age pigs, Exmoor ponies and long horn cattle, all of which have already started showing dividends by changing the ecology of the area from soil turnover rates, increase in wetland areas, or creation of new glades and deadwood habitats, which help invertebrates.

Beyond ecological restoration, KWT recognises the intrinsic link between nature and human health. Through green prescribing initiatives, they offer nature-based activities that support mental well being, reduce stress, and foster community connections. Programs like the Nature for Wellbeing initiative provide individuals with opportunities to engage with nature, promoting healthier lifestyles and a deeper appreciation for the environment.

KWT also manages some of the largest ancient woodlands in Britain, including the Blean complex, which encompasses over 1,000 hectares of semi-natural woodland. These ancient woods are biodiversity hotspots, home to rare species like the hazel dormouse and the heath fritillary butterfly. Through sustainable woodland management practices, such as coppicing and controlled grazing, KWT ensures these habitats continue to thrive for generations to come.

Financial transparency and dedication to conservation are hallmarks of KWT’s operations. In the fiscal year 2023-24, they allocated 88.3% of their income directly to wildlife specific activities, surpassing other major conservation organisations like WWF-UK and RSPB. Commendably, this commitment underscores their focus on impactful, on-the-ground conservation work.

The Wilder Kent 2030 strategy encapsulates KWT’s holistic approach to conservation. By aiming to double the area of nature-positive land under their management, reintroduce key species, and engage 25% of Kent’s population in conservation efforts, they are fostering a collaborative movement towards a more sustainable and biodiverse future.

Through innovative rewilding projects, community engagement, and unwavering dedication to ecological restoration, Kent Wildlife Trust is not only revitalising Kent’s natural landscapes but also setting a precedent for conservation efforts across the UK.

Kent Wildlife Trust www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk