In order to demonstrate the incredible potential of wildling as a nature-based solution to the climate and nature crises, it is crucial that we monitor the Blean very carefully.
Adventure Alliance
To measure change and monitor the impacts of our wilding projects over time, we must always gather data about the site before the project begins. This is called a baseline. All future data is then compared to this baseline so we can start to understand what has changed because of the project.
For the Wilder Blean project, this means that we need to know which wildlife species are present in West Blean and Thornden Woods, and what the vegetation and soil looks like before we start introducing our grazing animals.
Yes, we have developed a comprehensive ecological monitoring programme that will be led by Kent Wildlife Trust’s Wilding Evidence Ecologist and overseen by the Trust’s Conservation Evidence Manager.
This includes monitoring multiple different layers of habitat so that we can detect change wherever it occurs. Everything from soil sampling and worm counts to collecting data on vegetation structure with drone technology. We will be monitoring several different groups of species including, invertebrates, birds and mammals. There will be many opportunities to get involved with this work. Keep an eye out for these opportunities as they arise on our website.
If you have a question about ecological monitoring and can't find the answer, please get in touch. You can also keep an eye out on our social media where we regularly post our expert Q&As.
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Monitoring progress towards a Wilder Blean.
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