Traditional wildflower meadows are among the rarest habitats in the UK, with the country losing approximately 97% of its species-rich grasslands since the 1930s Ref: Fuller 1987.
Once a ubiquitous feature of the countryside, these ancient, unfertilized meadows now cover less than 1% of the total land area Ref: Plantlife. They continue to be lost through fertiliser application; atmospheric pollution; climate change; and land use change.
‘Semi-natural grassland is the most fragmented ecosystem in the Welsh lowlands; patches are widely scattered within landscapes dominated by improved grassland’
Source: Second State of Natural Resources Report 2020
Here at Monmouthshire Meadows Group we are passionate about doing our bit to reverse the decline in wildflower meadows and pastures. We believe that our Wildlife Clusters and corridors provide a great model for connecting these small but precious resources across the landscape.
Wildlife corridors are continuous strips of habitat connecting isolated natural areas. They enable animals to find food, mates, and adapt to climate change. In Monmouthshire wildlife corridors include native hedgerows, unmown verges, overgrown ditches and stream banks.
Wildlife clusters refer to distinct, highly biodiverse zones connected by these corridors to ensure species resilience across fragmented landscapes. Our MMG members are creating clusters of small and medium-sized meadows in a geographical patch.
At our Autumn 2026 meeting in Gwehelog, three local landowners shared their experiences of their own meadows and pastures. The enthusiasm of these three individuals inspired others to become involved, and we now have a network of 12 members in the Gwehelog & Llandenny area who have developed a cluster over 180 acres for the benefit of local wildlife; so creating something more valuable than the sum of its parts.
Together, they are inspiring their friends and neighbours to join them in expanding a nature friendly network. Helped by our volunteer botanist Tim Oliver they have developed their plant identification skills, and are learning together. Not only are they benefiting nature in this area, but they are also helping nature across the landscape, allowing plants, pollinators and other wildlife to move more freely between meadows and other habitats.
Gwehelog Cluster
Photo credit: Hamish Blair
What is an MMG Wildlife Cluster?
A small group of MMG members within a broad area, initially in Gwehelog and Llandenny, but with the plan to create more groups in Monmouthshire. The cluster members organise events and activities to support each other and encourage their neighbours to join up or become more nature-friendly.
What are the benefits of joining a cluster?
What do I need to join a cluster?
Mapping of clusters
A map showing relevant field boundaries will be produced for each cluster to enable clarity on the extent of existing wildlife friendly spaces and identify scope to extend them. No personal identifying information will be included on the map.
How can I join a cluster?
If you would like to be part of a Wildlife Cluster, contact us on queries@monmouthshiremeadows.org.uk . If there is already a cluster in your area, we will put you in touch with them. If there isn’t one, we can contact landowners in your area to ask if they would be interested in joining a cluster.