Join us for an immersive walk and talk series that celebrates the stories and sounds from Tamar Valley National Landscape, on the Devon/Cornwall border. Become more connected and feel closer to Nature, and all that this special landscape has to offer, through our episodes that are released at the end of every month.
‘Nature Connects’ has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme, a project of Tamar Valley National Landscape.
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Tamar Valley Wetlands – supporting a wealth of wildlife, benefitting our environment and all that lives within - Episode 1
Season 1 · Episode 1
Friday, January 31, 2025 • Duration 42:56
Find out more about Calstock Wetlands with Pete Thompson, and the wetland area at National Trust’s Cotehele from Lead Ranger George Holmes. Your hosts, Ginnette Sutherland and Charlotte Dancer, from the Tamar Valley National Landscape team, take a walk around Calstock and through the woods to Cotehele, to discover more about these amazing habitats and the wealth of wildlife they support, together with the vital role they play to benefit our wider environment and climate.
You’ll hear the sounds of Nature on the wetlands as we pause, listen and connect for a few moments, inspired by the nature connectedness work and research undertaken by University of Derby.
Learn more about three of our Tamar Valley Special Species – 17 animals and plants that were identified within the Tamar Valley National Landscape’s Nature Recovery Plan 2023-2030, as needing a helping hand to thrive. Valerie Darwall, Project Officer for Tamar Valley National Landscape, who is leading on this piece of work, talks about the beautiful avocet wading bird, one of which has been spotted this season at Calstock Wetlands; Palaemon longirostris, known locally as the ‘Calstock’ prawn; and triangular club-rush, with only one known remaining UK population on the muddy banks of a tidal stretch of the Tamar Estuary in Tamar-Tavy Estuary Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and was considered at risk of extinction in the UK.
Your hosts
Ginnette Sutherland, Community Engagement Officer (intern), Tamar Valley National Landscape/Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (National Lottery Heritage Fund supported)
Charlotte Dancer, Information & Communications Officer, Tamar Valley National Landscape
Our guests
Pete Thompson, member of Tamar Community Trust
George Holmes, Lead Ranger, National Trust Cotehele
Valerie Darwall, Project Officer, Tamar Valley National Landscape
With thanks
A big thank you to Jim Baldwin and Ross Sinclair from Fotonow for their technical support, advice and patience during the filming and editing stages, and for the images.
This podcast has been brought to you from Tamar Valley National Landscape, one of 46 National Landscapes throughout the UK that work in partnership to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of these protected landscapes. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1995, the Tamar Valley’s special qualities are;
A rare valley and water landscape
A landscape of high visual quality
A unique wildlife resource
A remarkable heritage
A landscape of artistic and public appeal
The podcast has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme, a project of Tamar Valley National Landscape, that aims to create a brighter future for the Tamar Valley and its communities, by creating opportunities and positive change through a programmes of 10 exciting projects.
Social media: @tamarvalleynl – find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
More episodes
Look out for our next podcast that will be released at the end of February 2025.
Green Careers – apprenticeships, traineeships and internships in the Tamar Valley
Episode 2
Thursday, February 27, 2025 • Duration 38:21
This month, to coincide with National Apprenticeship Week, we’ve been spending time on the Bere peninsula, interviewing Marketing Trainee Kirsty at Harlings Devon and our Community Engagement intern, Ginnette, as we explore green careers in the Tamar Valley.
Your hosts, Ginnette Sutherland and Charlotte Dancer from Tamar Valley National Landscape, meet the next generation that are benefitting from real hands-on experience and knowledge exchange throughout our National Landscape, and discover more about the apprenticeships, traineeships and internships created through our National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme.
Dave Bouch, Head Gardener at National Trust’s Cotehele and Antony, explains how he started his career as an apprenticeship at Antony in the 1980s, and introduces their current apprentice Sophie.
If you’re interested in a green career, this podcast offers tips and advice that you might like to consider as you start your journey.
This episode, you’ll hear the sounds of Nature at Weir Quay as we pause, listen and connect for a few moments in our regular slot inspired by the nature connectedness work and research undertaken by University of Derby.
Learn more about one of our Tamar Valley Special Species – 17 animals and plants that were identified within the Tamar Valley National Landscape’s Nature Recovery Plan 2023-2030, as needing a helping hand to thrive. Bryony James, Community & Volunteer Officer for Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme, talks about the harvest mouse that can be found in a range of habitats including species-rich grassland, reedbeds, tussock grasses on heathland and field margins. Creating field margins and reducing grazing pressure are just two ways in which we could help the harvest mouse.
Your hosts
Sustainable Tourism in the Tamar Valley – green tourism initiatives and a closer look at the Tamara Coast to Coast Way
Episode 3
Thursday, March 27, 2025 • Duration 40:43
Whether you’re planning a day trip or looking to stay for a while in the Tamar Valley, Sarah Bartlett from Visit Tamar Valley highlights just some of the ways in which local tourism providers are offering a sustainable experience, to help conserve the natural beauty of our area.
Find out more about Visit Tamar Valley’s eight Green Ambassadors, the sustainability pledge and their work towards a sustainable tourism charter during a walk and talk at Lopwell Dam, where we caught up with Sarah just ahead of English Tourism Week (15-24 March).
Your hosts, Ginnette Sutherland and Charlotte Dancer from Tamar Valley National Landscape, also chat with one of the first walkers to complete the 87-mile Tamara Coast to Coast Way when it launched in summer 2023. We catch up with Gary Lewis (Senior Heritage Officer for Tamara Landscape Partnership) at Okel Tor, to hear how he and Sarah Richardson walked the entire length in seven days, and the advice he’d give to walkers who would like to explore the route.
This episode, you’ll hear the sounds of Nature at Okel Tor as we pause, engage and connect for a few moments in our regular slot inspired by the nature connectedness work and research undertaken by University of Derby.
Learn more about one of our Tamar Valley Special Species – 17 animals and plants that were identified within the Tamar Valley National Landscape’s Nature Recovery Plan 2023-2030, as needing a helping hand to thrive. Gary Lewis talks about the Willow Tit that favours willow or other suitable thicket and scrub habitat in damp places.
Your hosts
Ginnette Sutherland, Community Engagement Officer (intern), Tamar Valley National Landscape/Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (National Lottery Heritage Fund supported)
Charlotte Dancer, Information & Communications Officer, Tamar Valley National Landscape
The Beauty of Blossom and the Benefits of Hedgerows
Episode 4
Wednesday, April 30, 2025 • Duration 01:30:04
A special extended episode of Nature Connects podcast has just been released from Tamar Valley National Landscape, this month focussing on blossom in a Tamar Valley cherry orchard and the great benefits of hedgerows.
In advance of The Tree Council’s National Hedgerow Week (5-11 May), hedge specialist and author, Rob Wolton, reveals the many benefits of hedges during a stroll around South Hooe Cottage Farmland Nature Trail on the Bere peninsula. Discover the secrets of these wildlife corridors and habitats in their own right, find out how they contribute to wider ecosystem services and learn how you can better manage hedges in the future.
Podcast hosts, Ginnette Sutherland and Charlotte Dancer from Tamar Valley National Landscape, also spent time at a cherry orchard near St Dominick where James Evans and Mary Martin have spent over 30 years preserving local heritage varieties of cherry, apple and pear trees. James and Mary share the fascinating origins and history of these stunning orchards; explore the diverse species growing there; highlight the management practices required to maintain the trees and discuss the incredible benefits to both biodiversity and our own wellbeing.
Ginnette Sutherland says; “This episode contains a wealth of advice and information on the benefits of blossom and hedges, so much so we’ve produced a longer podcast this month for our listeners. We’ve learned how to age a hedge, found out why there’s no such thing as a ‘perfect’ hedge and how orchard growers are needing to adapt as our climate changes.”
The monthly podcasts highlight at least one Tamar Valley Special Species; 17 plants and animals that were identified within Tamar Valley National Landscape’s Nature Recovery Plan 2023-2030 that need a helping hand to thrive. In this episode, find out more about the nationally-rare Plymouth Pear.
A regular feature of the podcast also includes taking just a moment to pause, engage and connect to the natural sounds that can be heard in the Tamar Valley, based on University of Derby’s Nature Connectedness research. This time, sit back and listen to the bird life at South Hooe.
Beaver and Butterflies: Summer Special Ep 6, part 2 - Butterflies
Episode 8
Friday, July 18, 2025 • Duration 36:22
In the second part of the two-part summer episode, we head to Greenscombe Woods, a Duchy of Cornwall site near Luckett, where we meet Jenny Plackett from Butterfly Conservation. This beautiful woodland is home to the Heath Fritillary, one of the UK’s rarest butterflies and a flagship species in the Tamar Valley National Landscape’s Nature Recovery Plan. Jenny shares the conservation story of this delicate species, the habitat work that supports it, and how citizen science through the Big Butterfly Count is helping monitor and protect butterfly populations. We also explore how butterflies can spark a deeper connection to nature and how local communities are playing a vital role in their recovery.
From the engineering marvels of beavers to the fleeting beauty of butterflies, this two part summer episode celebrates the power of nature to restore, inspire, and connect us all.
To learn more about the projects and organisations featured in part 2, visit the websites below. You can also take part in the Big Butterfly Count from the 18th July to 10th August and be part of a nationwide effort to track and protect these vital pollinators.
Ginnette Sutherland, Community Engagement Officer (intern), Tamar Valley National Landscape/Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (National Lottery Heritage Fund supported)
Our guest
Jenny Plackett – Butterfly Conservation, Conservation Manager (South West England)
Beavers and Butterflies: Summer Special Ep 6, Part 1 - Beavers
Episode 7
Friday, July 18, 2025 • Duration 41:38
In this special two-part summer episode, we journey into the heart of West Devon and then travel back to East Cornwall exploring two remarkable species that are helping to shape our landscapes and inspire nature recovery efforts across the region.
In part 1 we visit a Devon Wildlife Trust beaver trial site, where we’re joined by Matt Holden, the Trust’s Beaver Project Lead, and Mark Elliott, an ecological consultant with decades of experience in beaver reintroduction and management. Together, we explore what it means to be “beaver ready” as wild populations begin to return to our river catchments. We discuss the biodiversity and climate resilience benefits of beaver activity, the lessons learned from the Devon trial, and how these insights are influencing national policy. Along the way, we unpack common myths, shifting public perceptions, and how beavers can help us reconnect with the wild rhythms of nature.
From the engineering marvels of beavers to the fleeting beauty of butterflies, this two part episode celebrates the power of nature to restore, inspire, and connect us all. To learn more about the projects and organisations featured in part 1 visit the websites below.
Where Rivers Meet the Sea: Tamar's Migratory Story
Episode 6
Monday, June 2, 2025 • Duration 01:06:21
In celebration of World Fish Migration Day (WFMD), this episode of Nature Connects explores the lives of two remarkable migratory fish species found in the River Tamar: the Atlantic Salmon and the Allis Shad. These species are not only vital to the river’s ecosystem but also represent the resilience and interconnectedness of nature. WFMD is a global biannual event; however, awareness and engagement around fish migration are promoted annually to keep the spotlight on these critical ecological journeys.
Our guests are Angela Gall, Marine Senior Officer at Natural England and author of the children’s book Allis the Shad Who Wouldn't Give Up, and Dr. William Darwall, Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme Manager and past researcher with International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Angela brings a unique perspective that blends science and storytelling, while Will shares insights from his work on the red listing of the Atlantic Salmon and the broader implications for freshwater biodiversity.
We follow the epic journey of the Atlantic Salmon, from their freshwater beginnings to their oceanic travels and back again. These fish face numerous challenges, including habitat fragmentation and climate change, and conservation efforts are focused on improving connectivity and protecting genetic diversity. Will’s research has been instrumental in the recent IUCN red listing of the species, highlighting the urgent need for action.
We also learn about the Allis Shad, a lesser known but equally fascinating species that migrates from the sea to spawn in freshwater. Angela’s book brings their story to life for younger audiences, and she shares how storytelling can inspire conservation. Efforts to protect the Allis Shad include monitoring populations, improving fish passage, and addressing threats like pollution and habitat loss.
This episode is a celebration of migration, resilience, and the importance of healthy, free-flowing rivers. Angela and Will offer inspiring perspectives on how local and global conservation efforts are making a difference and how each of us can play a role in supporting these incredible species.
To learn more, visit the World Fish Migration Day website, explore the IUCN Red List, or discover the work of the Tamara Landscape Partnership. You can also find Angela’s book through local booksellers and conservation groups.
Where Nature Meets History: Biodiversity at Devon Great Consols
Season 1 · Episode 9
Thursday, October 2, 2025 • Duration 26:43
In this episode of Nature Connects, host Ginnette Sutherland is joined by Lesley Strong from Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage to explore Devon Great Consols, a former mining landscape in the Tamar Valley that has become a powerful symbol of regeneration, biodiversity, and cultural memory.
Together, they discuss how this historic site now supports rare species like the Greater Horseshoe Bat and the Nightjar, and how managing such places involves balancing the needs of heritage conservation with ecological restoration.
But beyond conservation, this episode also explores the opportunity for nature connectedness, how places like Devon Great Consols invite people to rediscover their relationship with the natural world through history, habitat, and community.
In this episode of Nature Connects, we celebrate National Tree Week (22nd to 30th Nov) with a spotlight on the Forest for Cornwall, a visionary project aiming to transform Cornwall’s landscape through trees.
We explore the vital role trees play in supporting climate resilience, restoring biodiversity, and reconnecting fragmented habitats. Our special guest, Ben Norwood shares insights into tree planting and establishment, the importance of trees outside woodland, agroforestry, and landscape connectivity, and how trees are being used to heal and regenerate the natural environment.
We also delve into the social and wellbeing benefits of trees, highlighting how communities across Cornwall are coming together to plant, protect, and celebrate them. Finally, we reflect on the deeper value of trees, how they shape our sense of place and foster a powerful connection with nature.
Tune in to discover why trees matter more than ever, and how you can get involved during National Tree Week and beyond.
In this episode of Nature Connects, host Ginnette Sutherland takes us deep into the heart of the Tamar Valley to celebrate and reflect on British Food Fortnight.
Join us as we meet the passionate team behind Tamar Grow Local and visit Wheal Farm, where pasture-raised chickens and fresh vegetables are part of a powerful movement to reconnect people with nature, community, and the food on their plates.
Discover how local food systems are not only nourishing bodies but also restoring biodiversity, building resilience, and sparking joy. From community cook-ups to hedgehog-friendly gardens, this episode is a celebration of how growing, sharing, and cooking food can transform lives and landscapes.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener, a curious foodie, or someone who simply loves nature, this episode will leave you inspired to dig deeper into the power of local food and the wild allies that thrive alongside it.
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Ginnette Sutherland, Community Engagement Officer (intern), Tamar Valley National Landscape/Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (National Lottery Heritage Fund supported)
Charlotte Dancer, Information & Communications Officer, Tamar Valley National Landscape
Ginnette Sutherland, Community Engagement Officer (intern), Tamar Valley National Landscape/Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (National Lottery Heritage Fund supported)
Sophie, Assistant Gardener Apprentice, National Trust’s Cotehele & Antony
Dave Bouch, Head Gardener, National Trust’s Cotehele & Antony
Bryony James, Community & Volunteer Officer, Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (Tamar Valley National Landscape project, supported by National Lottery Heritage Fund)
With thanks
Thank you to Jim Baldwin and Ross Sinclair from Fotonow for their technical support.
Tamara Trainees – through this project, 5 x 18-month apprenticeships and 6 x equivalent to 12 month fte training or internship equivalent have been/are being offered. Opportunities will be posted here - https://tamaralandscapepartnership.org.uk/opportunities/
This podcast has been brought to you from Tamar Valley National Landscape, one of 46 National Landscapes throughout the UK that work in partnership to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of these protected landscapes. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1995, the Tamar Valley’s special qualities are;
A rare valley and water landscape
A landscape of high visual quality
A unique wildlife resource
A remarkable heritage
A landscape of artistic and public appeal
The podcast has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme, a project of Tamar Valley National Landscape, that aims to create a brighter future for the Tamar Valley and its communities, by creating opportunities and positive change through a programmes of 10 exciting projects.
Social media: @tamarvalleynl – find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
More episodes
Look out for our next podcast that will be released at the end of March 2025.
Our guests
Sarah Bartlett, Marketing Consultant, Visit Tamar Valley
Gary Lewis, Senior Heritage Officer (Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (Tamar Valley National Landscape project, supported by National Lottery Heritage Fund)
With thanks
Thank you to Jim Baldwin and Ross Sinclair from Fotonow for their technical support.
Wildlife Equipment – we have a range of surveying equipment that you can borrow to find out what’s visiting your garden or community space. Please contact bryony.james@cornwall.gov.uk for further details.
Production
This podcast has been brought to you from Tamar Valley National Landscape, one of 46 National Landscapes throughout the UK that work in partnership to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of these protected landscapes. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1995, the Tamar Valley’s special qualities are;
A rare valley and water landscape
A landscape of high visual quality
A unique wildlife resource
A remarkable heritage
A landscape of artistic and public appeal
The podcast has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme, a project of Tamar Valley National Landscape, that aims to create a brighter future for the Tamar Valley and its communities, by creating opportunities and positive change through a programmes of 10 exciting projects.
Social media: @tamarvalleynl – find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
More episodes
Look out for our next podcast that will be released at the end of April 2025. Please like, subscribe and share, and leave feedback to help inform future episodes.
Charlotte Dancer shares how you can explore this month’s topic further; “If you’ve been inspired by our latest podcast, and would like to delve deeper into orchards and hedges, James and Mary’s books ‘A Cornish Pomona’ and ‘Tamar Valley Cherries’ are available to buy from Tamar Valley Food Hubs - https://openfoodnetwork.org.uk/tamar-valley-food-hubs/shop. ‘Devon Hedges’ is also available to buy https://devonhedges.org/resources/publications/”
Nature Connects was launched in January this year, to bring the benefits of Nature to a wider audience, by celebrating the stories and sounds from Tamar Valley National Landscape, through a series of immersive walk and talk podcasts. Listeners can find all episodes of Nature Connects on podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music. New podcasts will be released at the end of each month throughout 2025. These podcasts have been made possible thanks to National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme, a project of Tamar Valley National Landscape.
Thank you to Ross Sinclair and Jim Baldwin from Fotonow FOTONOW CIC - Fotonow CIC for their technical support.
Production
This podcast has been brought to you from Tamar Valley National Landscape, one of 46 National Landscapes throughout the UK that work in partnership to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of these protected landscapes. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1995, the Tamar Valley’s special qualities are;
A rare valley and water landscape
A landscape of high visual quality
A unique wildlife resource
A remarkable heritage
A landscape of artistic and public appeal
The podcast has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme, a project of Tamar Valley National Landscape, that aims to create a brighter future for the Tamar Valley and its communities, by creating opportunities and positive change through a programme of 10 exciting projects.
Wildlife Equipment – we have a range of surveying equipment that you can borrow to find out what’s visiting your garden or community space. Please contact bryony.james@cornwall.gov.uk for further details.
Social media: @tamarvalleynl – find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
Your host
Ginnette Sutherland, Community Engagement Officer (intern), Tamar Valley National Landscape/Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (National Lottery Heritage Fund supported)
Our guests
Matt Holden – Devon Wildlife Trust Beaver Project Lead Mark Elliot – Ecological consultant specialising in beaver reintroduction and management
With thanks
Thank you to Ross Sinclair and Jim Baldwin from Fotonow FOTONOW CIC - Fotonow CIC for their technical support.
Production
This podcast has been brought to you from Tamar Valley National Landscape, one of 46 National Landscapes throughout the UK that work in partnership to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of these protected landscapes. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1995, the Tamar Valley’s special qualities are;
A rare valley and water landscape
A landscape of high visual quality
A unique wildlife resource
A remarkable heritage
A landscape of artistic and public appeal
The podcast has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme, a project of Tamar Valley National Landscape, that aims to create a brighter future for the Tamar Valley and its communities, by creating opportunities and positive change through a programme of 10 exciting projects.
Wildlife Equipment – we have a range of surveying equipment that you can borrow to find out what’s visiting your garden or community space. Please contact bryony.james@cornwall.gov.uk for further details.
Social media: @tamarvalleynl – find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
Your host
Ginnette Sutherland, Community Engagement Officer (intern), Tamar Valley National Landscape/Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (National Lottery Heritage Fund supported)
Our guests
Angela Gall, Marine Senior Officer and Author (Natural England)
Dr William Darwall, Scheme Manager (Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (Tamar Valley National Landscape project, supported by National Lottery Heritage Fund)
With thanks
Thank you to Ross Sinclair and Jim Baldwin from Fotonow FOTONOW CIC - Fotonow CIC for their technical support.
Wildlife Equipment – we have a range of surveying equipment that you can borrow to find out what’s visiting your garden or community space. Please contact bryony.james@cornwall.gov.uk for further details.
Production
This podcast has been brought to you from Tamar Valley National Landscape, one of 46 National Landscapes throughout the UK that work in partnership to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of these protected landscapes. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1995, the Tamar Valley’s special qualities are;
A rare valley and water landscape
A landscape of high visual quality
A unique wildlife resource
A remarkable heritage
A landscape of artistic and public appeal
The podcast has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme, a project of Tamar Valley National Landscape, that aims to create a brighter future for the Tamar Valley and its communities, by creating opportunities and positive change through a programmes of 10 exciting projects.
