Issue 7

In their element – coastal otters in north Wales

After a period of rapid decline, otters are making a comeback. A group of dedicated otter-watchers have been charting their progress, and finding that marine fish feature on the otters' menu. As CHRIS HALL and KATE WILLIAMSON report, otters are not averse to a spot of sea fishing.

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The mysterious Welsh sorbs

The whitebeam, rowan and service trees belong to the genus Sorbus, of which Wales has its own endemics. PATRICK ROPER explores the historical and cultural significance of these wondrous trees, the bearers of cherished fruits, which link us to the world of Monks and Druids.

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Food shopping with the environment in mind

As consumers, we are just beginning to make the connection between the food we buy and the environment we want. Better food can mean a better environment. One initiative is doing much to show the practical benefits which flow when the environment is part of the deal which the farmers offers the consumer. In Wales these benefits include a re-activated farming advisory service, as GLENDA THOMAS reports.

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The Lore of Plants: bracken and reader response!

A look at an article about bracken by ROLANT WILLIAMS in a community newspaper this time, and a taste of the feedback received from readers to one or two articles under this title.

This article is written in Welsh. A translation is available on request.

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The conservation of fritillary butterflies

The beauty of the fritillary butterflies is sadly matched by their scarcity. The race is on to find out just what conditions they require, and to manage their remaining sites to provide these conditions. Here RUSSELL HOBSON reports on work to conserve the two most endangered species, and describes the three species with which they may be confused.

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Pontbren Rural Care Project

Here ALWYN HUGHES describes how ten north Powys farmers came together to discuss the future of their farms and their environment in general. And the result? A new and exciting co-operative agri-environmental scheme.

This article is written in Welsh. A translation is available on request.

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Farmers unite for community and environment

A home-made, grass-roots, agri-environment scheme. Where farmers have chosen to work together to benefit the local community and environment, is turning heads. Could this be the way of the future, asks CLIVE FAULKNER?

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Getting it locally – food initiatives in Powys

One way that farmers and growers can compete in a global food market, to the benefit of local economy, the environment and the consumer, is by providing fresh, flavoursome local food. Are you getting it locally? RICHARD PITTS describes local food initiatives in Powys.

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Cardigan Bay and its conservation importance

Given the innate appeal of seabirds, dolphins and whales, it is no wonder that the special beauty of Cardigan Bay has come to prominence recently. The efforts of many dedicated individuals are starting to reveal the scale of the Bay's importance, but there is much still to discover, as MICK GREEN and MARK SIMMONDS report.

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