Almost 100 volunteers and staff attended the new Conservation Conference (formerly the Monitoring and Research and Wardens Conferences) held at Southfield School, Kettering, on 22 February 2025.

The day started with an introductory presentation from Brian Eversham (BCN Chief Executive) on conservation management and monitoring. This was followed by presentations on beaver and water vole re-introductions and details of the MAMBO (modern approaches for monitoring biodiversity) project at Strawberry Hill.

The morning session concluded with two talks: an excellent keynote presentation on mink control by Vince Lea from the Waterlife Recovery Trust. This was followed by Duncan Mackay's fascinating talk on a gall mite and it's potential impact on hazel trees. 

The sun came out at lunchtime, so everyone was able to enjoy their buffet lunch and have a chat outside. Indoors there were an assortment of displays, highlighting the work of the Trust. 

In the afternoon, attendees were treated to an update on the wildlife in the Great Fen, an overview of reserve management trials and a 10 year review on the Bedfordshire slow worm translocation project.

The day ended with a wonderful grazing video showcasing the incredible work that cattle and sheep (and our grazing staff) undertake on our nature reserves.

Join us at the next conference in 2027!