The Somerset Levels, the birthplace of England, ought to be our Camargue. But this fabled landscape has been desecrated beyond all recognition. Now, at long last, change is in the air.
So inspiring. Thank you. I spent 4 years of my younger working life on what was the Parrett Catchment Project, bringing together organisations to try to find consensus around water management and trial ‘farming water’, better soil management, tree planting, water storage, wetland enhancement etc. It faced vehement opposition from the local MP and others and, despite its aspirational 50 year vision, it was ended after the first round of EU funding. More partnerships and projects have followed, and, from afar, I’ve been especially following FWAG and SWT’s work as they’re such forces for positive change. I must revisit the Avalon Marshes 🦩
I have just read this inspiring article. The only thing I wanted to add was that there once existed, within the early Christian church, a small book that informed monks how to paddle their coracles to visit other monasteries. There being no roads, the waterways took over.
I am proud to have the map of the Cider Sea on my wall. It shows what will be left after the inundation caused by global warming.
A beautifully crafted piece by one of the champions of re-wilding. Ben’s brilliant beavering paints a picture with prose that leaves me panting for more
Fascinating on Somerset which I’m new to. You write very evocatively. Let’s hope reason prevails. Somerset already is a beautiful corner of England and this writing conjures up what could be even more beautiful
It’s lovely to hear about how this special area used to and perhaps could be once again. Let’s make it happen! Thanks Ben.
Great piece Ben - thank you
So inspiring. Thank you. I spent 4 years of my younger working life on what was the Parrett Catchment Project, bringing together organisations to try to find consensus around water management and trial ‘farming water’, better soil management, tree planting, water storage, wetland enhancement etc. It faced vehement opposition from the local MP and others and, despite its aspirational 50 year vision, it was ended after the first round of EU funding. More partnerships and projects have followed, and, from afar, I’ve been especially following FWAG and SWT’s work as they’re such forces for positive change. I must revisit the Avalon Marshes 🦩
I have just read this inspiring article. The only thing I wanted to add was that there once existed, within the early Christian church, a small book that informed monks how to paddle their coracles to visit other monasteries. There being no roads, the waterways took over.
I am proud to have the map of the Cider Sea on my wall. It shows what will be left after the inundation caused by global warming.
A beautifully crafted piece by one of the champions of re-wilding. Ben’s brilliant beavering paints a picture with prose that leaves me panting for more
Beautifully written Ben, as always - from the heart and to the point. Focusing on what really matters. I’m sharing widely.
Great piece Ben, keep going!
Great article Ben! Thanks for sharing.
Fascinating on Somerset which I’m new to. You write very evocatively. Let’s hope reason prevails. Somerset already is a beautiful corner of England and this writing conjures up what could be even more beautiful
Really nice article Ben, keep up the good work...