An Evening with Devon Wildlife Trust

About

An Evening with Devon Wildlife Trust

Exploring their Natural Solutions project and the reintroduction of beavers across Devon.

Join us on Tuesday 7th March 2023 at 6:30pm as Quince Honey Farm hosts another 2 nature-themed talks, from Izzy Moser and Matt Holden at Devon Wildlife Trust.

"Pressures on northern Devon's farmland have resulted in declines of wildflowers, insects and birds among grasslands and hedges, while freshwater fish have been impacted by pollution in rivers and streams. Flood risk has also increased in recent years, and the impacts of climate change are likely to exacerbate all these problems."
Devon Wildlife Trust Natural Solutions Project
https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/northern-devon-natural-solutions

"Natural Solutions: improving land and water for wildlife and people. A whistle stop tour" by Izzy Moser

The Northern Devon Natural Solutions Project focuses on using natural solutions to create, restore and connect wild spaces for nature. Find out what this project is achieving to benefit north Devon's environment, including wildlife ponds, hedgerows, pasture and woodlands. Plus, hear about Devon Wildlife Trust's work on river restoration and how they are improving conditions for these fragile ecosystems, supporting species including fish, eels, riverflies and freshwater pearl mussels.

Izzy Moser has been working with Devon Wildlife Trust for the past 7 years. Predominantly focusing on rivers, her journey started with a rare species in the Taw and Torridge rivers – the freshwater pearl mussel. She currently works on the Northern Devon Natural Solutions Project and provides whole farm advice for landowners, including support with agri-environment schemes. Prior to this, she worked at the North Devon Biosphere Reserve in Barnstaple and with a small woodland business, writing woodland management plans. Izzy loves working in North Devon and providing support to make positive changes for wildlife.

"Beavers in Devon – the truths and myths of our ecosystem engineers" by Matt Holden

This talk will cover the status of beavers in Devon, introducing the River Otter Beaver Trial, the current number of beaver territories and the future for beavers in Devon. The myths and truths around beaver ecology and behaviour will be explored, as well as fascinating research on the impacts and benefits delivered by this keystone species. The ways we can maximise the benefits of beavers, whilst alleviating or minimising the undesirable impacts, will also be up for discussion!

Matt Holden has worked in the nature conservation/research sector for the past 12 years on a range of projects including river restoration, farm nature conservation advice and agri-environment scheme support. Recently he completed his PhD with Clinton Devon Estate and the University of Exeter on the contrasting ecosystem service benefits derived from different agricultural systems in the Lower Otter catchment. He has since worked as the Devon Beaver Project Lead and is passionate about the recovery of this enigmatic ecosystem engineer.

Other information

• Doors open at 6:00pm, Talks start at 6:30pm and finish at 8:15pm with an interval.
• The Nectar Gardens will be open between 6pm – 6:30pm for customers to explore at their leisure.
• Refreshments, including hot and cold drinks and cake, will be available to purchase from the Nectary Restaurant between 6pm – 6:30pm and during the interval.
• Please arrive in good time to be seated and ready for the talk to start at 6:30pm