WWT Welney Wetland centre

WWT Welney has been protecting wetlands and wetland wildlife on the Ouse Washes wetlands since 1967, opening the first hide for visitors in 1970. Since then we have seen the importance of the site grow for wintering swans and ducks, as well as the popularity for this winter spectacle amongst people. The site is incredibly important for breeding birds in the spring as wet grassland habitat is much smaller today than it ever has been. The team of staff and volunteers have welcome visitors over the years to enjoy the wildlife spectacles throughout the seasons and to use these as platforms to inspire and inform people as to the threats facing wetlands and why we need to protect these habitats. In these times of climate change we have shown ways of creating new wetlands and working together with other organisations to champion living sustainably and working with nature rather than against it. We are part of the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust and as such can tell national stories and promote national action for the environment as well as on a local scale. We have been awarded for our work providing facilities for visitors to be able to enjoy the wetlands we look after – currently holding a Gold Award from Visit England’s Visitor Attraction Scheme.