Designing a future for Nature
Haslemere Biodiversity; Who are We?
Haslemere Biodiversity formed as a not-for-profit, Limited by Guarantee company in May 2024. Its origins were in the environmental policies for the Neighbourhood Plan, which passed public referendum in Nov 2021 and on which our founding members worked together. Our organisation provides a platform for sharing ideas, expertise and resources, and developing policies, plans and partnerships that enable grass roots action to protect and improve our physical and natural environment. We understand how special this area is and want to enrich its leafy beauty for all of the species that live here.
Join Haslemere Biodiversity: Become a Champion for Local Wildlife!
Many skills are needed to rebuild the resilience of Haslemere’s flora, fauna and the wildlife corridors on which they depend. Make an impact – become a vital part of Haslemere Biodiversity today.
Protected Sites
Woodland Coverage
Wildlife Corridors
Our Mission
To connect, enrich and expand our green spaces for wildlife and for people
About Us
What does Haslemere Biodiversity do?
- Ecological Mapping
- Restoring and enhancing Haslemere's Ecological Network (HEN)
- Community Action and Volunteering
- Advocacy for Biodiversity Policies
- Stakeholder Dialogue and Partnership
Explore the impact of the Haslemere Biodiversity Group as we focus on mapping wildlife sites, nurturing ecological corridors, and safeguarding the diverse flora and fauna of our community. Join us in our mission to create a thriving environment for future generations.
Projects
Impactful Initiatives: Creating Change on the Ground
Safeguarding a Wildlife Haven
The HEN maps out a unique network of designated nature sites, public open spaces and the wildlife corridors that connect them. It comprises a diverse array of habitats and species. Find out how close the network comes to you, how these precious connections are protected and what plans there are for their future.
Future Proofing the HEN for future generations
This work identifies the most important opportunities for nature protection across the town and proposes action plans that will enable wildlife to thrive in a changing landscape. Find out how we are boosting populations of local species under threat by restoring, creating and connecting key habitats.
Community projects that benefit our health and the environment
Our gardens, allotments and community green spaces can provide a network of stepping stones allowing local wildlife safe passage to find food, shelter and potential mates. Find out more about how you can adapt your gardening practices to create valuable new habitats for wildlife and discover enjoyment, interest and health benefits from gardening with wildlife in mind.
What drives us
Why are Haslemere's natural spaces and biodiversity important?
Our area lies nestled in the most southerly Surrey Hills, surrounded by beautiful countryside, verdant hillsides and protected landscapes. Much of the land is among the earliest acquired by the National Trust; a walkers’ paradise and wildlife haven situated at the intersection of two Biodiversity Opportunity Areas. The area is considered of high value to wildlife conservation in Surrey, Sussex and Hampshire and efforts made here have the potential to amplify conservation work over a much larger area. It really is a special place that deserves to be prioritised.
Ecosystem Harmony
There are opportunities to make an exponential difference to wildlife across a much wider area by enriching and improving connectivity of the ecosystem in this special place.
Community well-being
Natural spaces enhance well-being, offering peaceful environments for recreation and mental rejuvenation.
Sustainable Legacy
Preserving biodiversity ensures a sustainable legacy, fostering environmental resilience and community stewardship for generations.
Resilience to Climate Change
Improving the abundance, vitality and connectivity of our woodland, waterways and pollinators will improve the outlook for our natural environment in the face of climate change.
The Best Team
Meet Our Volunteers
Our dedicated and thoughtful team have a considerable range of skills from diverse professional backgrounds. The majority began with little expertise in flora and fauna, but through generously applying their time and knowledge from other fields, have picked up significant local knowledge. We are guided by ecologists and consultants, but lay members of the community from whatever sector are always more than welcome.
Nuture our Planet
What's the Best Way to get Involved?
In these challenging times, making the best use of funds, resources and valuable volunteer time is a significant responsibility and no group could hope to have all the answers in house. Ecology is a diverse subject area and collaboration with other organisations doing very good work on nature conservation, each with different areas of influence and expertise, is key to maximising project success. Working with partners such as our Local Authorities, Local Wildlife Trusts, the Wey River Trust, the Surrey Dormouse Group, and the Natural Trust enables access to best advice for the issue at hand and in return we share our knowledge, strategy and volunteer time.
Partnerships established and growing
In collaboration with:
Be a Champion for Nature
Join Us in Preserving the Area’s Natural Splendour
Embrace the call to action – volunteer, participate, and contribute to safeguarding the beauty of Haslemere’s natural spaces. Together, let’s create a sustainable legacy for our community.
Testimonials
What People Say About
Our Organization
From Our Experience
News and Articles
Responding to Surrey Hills National Landscape Review
The last review of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty was in 1958 so members knew the consultation was a once in a lifetime opportunity to contribute to its shape. Our efforts bore fruit with Waggoners Wells, Ludshott Common and more sections along Bunch Lane now included for community assessment. Read more in our article; aimed at raising awareness among local residents.
Circadian Rhythms and Artificial Light
Read more about the contribution artificial light makes to mental health decline and the effects on the abilities of local wildlife to reproduce, feed and to navigate their territories.
Creating a Paradise for Pollinators
Primary pollinator commuting routes over the UK and Europe are mapped and our area has B-lines going right across it. In collaboration with national conservation charity Buglife, the National Trust and Haslemere Town Council, we launched a wildflower project in Beacon Hill to enrich one of the routes that will allow pollinators to reach more habitats. Read more on this fascinating initiative.