THREE politicians have been branching out to learn about a conservation project.

They recently visited Bodfari to find out more about how the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) has linked up with the Woodland Skills Centre as part of a new four-part woodland conservation project.

Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies, Clwyd West MS Darren Millar and Vale of Clwyd MS Gareth Davies visited the Woodland Skills Centre, which is based in the heart of the Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, to learn more about the partnership from Lee Oliver, who is leading the GWCT project, and Rod Waterfield, who set up the Woodland Skills Centre.

GWCT has joined together with the Woodland Skills Centre as part of the ‘Cynnal Coetir’ Elwy Valley Sustainable Management Scheme (SMS).

The Elwy valley SMS started life with the Deer Initiative and has since transferred to the GWCT.

The project centres around an ever-growing population of fallow deer, where in some areas they are having a negative effect on woodland regeneration.

However, it has now developed beyond a deer centred project to encompass all woodland threats for now and in the future.

Dr James Davies said: “It was a very informative visit and I was pleased to hear of all the work being carried out to protect our woodlands.

“We were told that the entire project area covers a vast 23,500 hectares to reflect the occurrence and movement of the deer population, and that they are working in partnership with Bangor University, who have two PhD and two Masters students working on the project.

“They also told us that the project involves working with schools and community groups to raise awareness of the challenges facing woodlands."

Darren Millar said: “The Woodland Skills Centre is a fantastic facility in an absolutely spectacular location.

"It was a pleasure to visit... to learn more about its work with the GWCT.

“As Wales Species Champion for the Red Squirrel, I was particularly pleased to hear that the scheme involves an invasive species control project.

“I commend both the Woodland Skills Centre and the GWCT for all they are doing, particularly their efforts to educate more young people about wildlife and the woodland.”

Gareth Davies added: “As well as learning about this fantastic project, we were also told about the impressive courses and traditional crafts they do at the Woodland Skills Centre, and also learnt more about the forest school for children, and the social prescribing the centre carries out, linked with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board."