Responding to climate change at Upper Conwy, Snowdonia National Park



The rugged and mountainous terrain of Upper Conwy in the northern half of Snowdonia National Park provides a diverse mosaic of wildlife habitats. Blanket bog and moorland can be found in the uplands, while woodland, meadows, farmland and estuaries occur as you travel towards the lowlands.
Rivers travel the entire length of the landscape and increased rainfall means the area is at greater risk of flooding. Data from our partners Natural Resources Wales (NRW) shows that, of the seven highest peaks recorded during the last 40 years, four have occurred during the last two years.
Restoring riverlands
By working with local communities, organisations, landowners and tenant farmers we’re creating joined-up habitats that are rich in wildlife and resilient to climate change.
We've reconnected a section of river to its floodplain, planted trees and restored eroding riverbanks. With your donations and funding from NRW, we've also removed two embankments bordering a stretch of river running through Carrog Farm. This has created a better habitat for freshwater species. The re-positioning of large boulders in certain areas diversify the riverbed and alter the flow pattern from a single 'rush' of water into multiple flows. The restoration of rivers has benefited a variety of wildlife, including trout, otters, dippers, kingfishers, sandpipers, herons and grey wagtails.
Protecting peatland
With 4 per cent of the world's deepest and most effective peatland in Wales, we must do everything we can to protect it in Upper Conwy.
Together with our partners, we’ve restored over 2500 hectares of peatland, ensuring that water is held in the upper catchment for longer, improving its ability to store carbon and alleviating flooding downstream. This, in turn, supports rare wading birds such as golden plover and curlew, as well as important plants, including sphagnum mosses, cotton grasses and sundews.
Partners and funders
The restoration and conservation of this special landscape have been made possible thanks to a grant from NRW and a donation from philanthropists Roger and Ania Manser.
Gwynebu argyfwng hinsawdd yn Uwch Conwy
Facing the climate crisis at Upper Conwy
Gwyliwch y fideo gydag is-deitlau Cymraeg yma
Watch the video with Welsh subtitles here