Why do Nature Reserves Matter for Conservation

This is a FREE event with the option to make a donation if you wish to.  

What’s it really like caring for a nature reserve? From looking after the land, protecting species and working with the people who make nature recovery possible – our nature reserves are special places. Join us as we find out what’s it been like looking after our flagship nature reserve, Ranscombe Farm, for 20 years. We’ll share behind-the-scenes insights into the life of a nature reserve manager and why our reserves matter now more than ever.

Meet the speakers:

Ben Sweeney began his career in nature conservation as a volunteer at the age of 16, and went on to do a Masters degree in Conservation at UCL. He has spent over 20 years working in the landscape of the North Kent Downs, with the last 17 of those at the 660-acre Ranscombe Farm Reserve (Plantlife’s largest nature reserve in England) with its truly unique assemblage of wildflowers. He is passionate about the landscape of the Kent countryside and understanding the history behind it.

Camille McCawley is Senior Participation Officer at Plantlife and leads the Ranscombe Connect project at Ranscombe Farm Nature Reserve in Kent. Her work focuses on community engagement, volunteering and co-production, helping more people connect with nature and shape the future of the reserve. With a background in environmental science and over a decade of experience in community development and participation, she is passionate about making nature accessible and welcoming. Camille is also a freelance poet and creative practitioner who uses writing to help people connect with nature and place. 

At the end of the talk there will be an opportunity to ask questions. 

This talk will be recorded and a link to the recording will be sent within ten days after the event  to all those who have registered.

This event is free of charge, but there is an option to make a donation if you wish to.

Many thanks

Plantlife Membership Team