National Nature Reserves
There are 71 National Nature Reserves
(NNRs) in Wales ranging in size from half a
hectare to nearly 8,000 hectares.
National Nature Reserves – what are they?
National Nature Reserves (NNRs) are the very best examples of
wildlife habitats and sites and may include interesting geological
features. They range from high mountain summits, ancient oak woods,
wetlands, bogs and sand dunes to remote off-shore islands. All are
special in their own way, some having remarkable collections of
species, others displaying rare types of habitat, and a few
containing notable natural features such as rock formations or cave
systems.
All of the reserves are also Sites of Special Scientific
Interest and may be used for educational projects, research and
management trials.
How are they managed?
Our aim is that NNRs will set the standard of management for
nature conservation and access. CCW owns some NNRs and leases
others. In some cases we work in partnerships with landowners
and occupiers who agree to use and manage the land in a way that
benefits wildlife and their habitats. Some NNRs are managed
entirely by other bodies such as County Wildlife Trusts, the RSPB
or a local authority.
Each CCW reserve has a dedicated management team with a
programme of work to manage the site's special features. Some
reserves have resident wardens, who help with conserving the
quality of the site, access issues, dealing with landowners and
visitors and supervising research.
Visiting NNRs
Visitors are welcomed, provided access to the site is safe and
that their presence does not damage habitats or wildlife or
interfere with the interests of owners and tenants. You may need a
permit to visit some of the reserves.