Click here for the Welsh translationHelping Outdoor Enthusiasts Understand Recreation and Nature and Recreation and the Environment
Recreation enthusiasts and conservationists share many of the same objectives but from different perspectives. This section will help recreation enthusiasts better understand the perspective of conservationists.
To gain an insight into other aspects of conservation:
Conservation officers will welcome visitors to their site and will want them to enjoy their visit. However, they will be concerned about any activities that adversely affects the natural environment as the sensitivity changes throughout the year. Ask the Conservation Officer to find out when are the most sensitive times.
This section of the website aims to help those involved in countryside recreation improve their understanding of nature consevation issues. Follow the links below for further explanation:
- Pressures on the Environment
- About Designated Sites – Nature conservation
- More About Sites of Nature Conservation Importance
- Conservation Officers
- Consents for Recreational Activity on Designated Sites
- Management Plans
If a proposed activity (for which landowner permission is needed) may have an effect on a designated site, consent must be obtained from the relevant nature conservation body.
In some situations, a conservation body is required by law to control access to and activities on designated sites if it believes that such access or activities will damage the nature conservation value of the site. Remember, any damage to wildlife may be a criminal offence. Click here to open http://www.jncc.gov.uk/page-4 in a new window.
Many sensitive sites are covered by management plans. These will set out objectives and policies for how access is to be managed, the site’s maintenance and protection.
Click on the Management Plans link above.
For many activities, a National Governing Body exists to help secure access to sites for outdoor activities and represent members' interests.
To get the outdoor pursuits’ perspective. Click here to go to Outdoor Pursuits.
