A Local Rewilding Network is a group of people coming together who are passionate about rewilding and want to make a difference to their local area. Every group is different and will keep evolving depending on the needs of their area and the interests of the people who are part of it, and anyone is welcome to get involved. Being in the same geographical area allows people to:
- Network with others who live nearby
- Organise events, workshops, and practical workdays in their community
- Share local resources and information
- Connect rewilding sites that need support with local volunteers
- Share the positive benefits of rewilding and the hope that comes with it
Why have more rewilding networks?
The feedback from people at site visits, workshops and YRN festival events has been clear: meeting likeminded others in person is great! We’ve noticed that every time rewilders get together there’s a special energy, enthusiasm and joy that fills the space. We’ve nicknamed it the ‘rewilding buzz.’
Local networks also create opportunities for those without land to get involved in rewilding projects, meaning they can still pitch in and build a meaningful relationship with a physical site.
In 2024-25 YRN ran a ‘Rewilding Hubs’ project that supported two pilot local rewilding networks in North Leeds and Whitby & the Esk Valley. This showed there was a real appetite for networks at a very local level. Rewilding Britain (the national rewilding charity) have also recently published their new strategy which includes a focus on local networks. Through their Innovation Fund we have been given a grant to help us to continue to expand this initiative.
Is there a local rewilding network near me?
Local Rewilding Networks now have their own icon on the YRN map of rewilding projects. Click on the icon to find out more about each group and how to get in touch with them. The YRN map can be found here.
If you’re interested in setting up a local rewilding network where you live, let us know and we’ll see how we can help. Please email us at info@yorkshirerewildingnetwork.org.uk
‘I’ve had a great feeling of satisfaction that I’m making some difference. I’ve spread the word about rewilding to numerous people and I’m hoping to inspire more projects in my local community.” – Rob Cope, Rewilding Leeds.
Introducing ‘Rewilding Leeds’
We are a group of volunteers that is aiming to support the increase of biodiversity and habitat creation across the city of Leeds.
Like so many large urban environments, there are already many green and wildlife friendly areas to be found within the city but there is also a great deal of scope to extend and enhance these, large scale or small, as well as to raise awareness amongst local communities.
Our objectives are to:
- Provide signposting to resources, locations and organisations relevant to nature recovery.
- Create and maintain a directory and map of useful organisations and groups within or relevant to Leeds.
- Hold and support events to promote nature recovery and appreciation.
- Facilitate and encourage networking between interested groups and individuals.
- Provide guidance and support to local projects.
- Communicate and promote local, regional and national events, courses and activities.
To find out more:
If you are interested in rewilding, at whatever scale, and have queries about how to take some action or be involved in local projects in Leeds, please do contact us at: rewildingleeds@gmail.com