A very special area within Carmarthen Bay and its estuaries is being established. Known as a Special Area of Conservation (or SAC), it will help preserve and encourage the growth of all wildlife.
There are 10 relevant authorities in all, who are responsible for the conservation and management of the site, and they include the City and County of Swansea, Carmarthenshire County Council and Pembrokeshire County Council. The authorities are now in the process of producing a long term management plan, but before they can do this they need to get 'stakeholders' involved in the process.
'Stakeholders' means anyone who works or runs a business in or near the SAC or has a general interest in the area and the wildlife within it. If you fit this description, then the authorities want to hear from you.
Two public meetings are being held in October to which all 'stakeholders are invited; during the course of the meetings, they can help decide how they will be involved in the development of the Carmarthen Bay and Estuaries SAC management scheme.
Richard Beale, chairman of the Relevant Authorities Group, said: "The SAC area is a 255 square mile protected area stretching from Tenby to Port Eynon in Gower and up the Three Rivers estuaries to just below Carmarthen. It is part of 'Natura 2000', a series of sites set up to conserve biodiversity across Europe. We want to involve as many local people as possible so everyone can have an opportunity to put their views and ideas forward.
"We are also currently distributing a leaflet explaining all about the SAC, which is available from public libraries.
"If anyone wishes to receive a copy through the post or wants further information, please ring the SAC support officer on (01792) 635077 or visit the website at http://www.carmarthenbaysac.org.uk."">www.carmarthenbaysac.org.uk."