A new local partnership has been launched which aims to foster greater understanding of conservation issues and the value of nature in our society.

The Pembrokeshire Nature Partnership also seeks to promote collaboration and sharing best practice across the conservation sector.

The new organisation takes on the role and assets of the Pembrokeshire Biodiversity Partnership, says Ant Rogers, biodiversity implementation officer.

“We will continue to use existing networks, while also forging new relationships to ensure the best outcomes for nature,” said Ant.

“Recent policy and guidance relating to the sustainable management of natural resources represent a shift away from specific biodiversity action plans and towards a more holistic, multi partner approach to ‘nature recovery’.

“This refreshing and re-branding of the Pembrokeshire Biodiversity Partnership (PBP) as Pembrokeshire Nature Partnership (PNP) is part of this wider process.”

He added that it positions the Partnership within the new framework without losing the networks and close working relationships that PBP has built up over the last 18 years.

The inaugural meeting of the Pembrokeshire Nature Partnership was attended by a wide range of stakeholders.

Current partners include: Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust, Buglife, Darwin Centre, Farmers Union of Wales, Natural Resources Wales, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Pembrokeshire County Council, PLANED, West Wales Biodiversity Information Centre, Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales.

Together, the Partners have produced plans to guide conservation effort to where it is most needed and worked directly on the ground together to secure improvements for species as diverse as the rare southern damselfly, dormouse and waxcap fungi.

Pembrokeshire County Council and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority have played a key role in supporting the local Partnership since its inception – part funding the core running costs and providing expertise to steer the work of the Partnership and deliver specific tasks.

It is also supported by Welsh Government and has a network of some 200 individuals with relevant skills and experience who contribute time and expertise to the furthering of conservation aims in Pembrokeshire.

If you’d like to get in touch with the Pembrokeshire Nature Partnership, please contact Ant Rogers at [email protected]