Wild Kielder

The landscape of Kielder has a rich history, characterised by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and extensive water systems and more recently timber production. Located towards the northern end of Kielder Forest, Wild Kielder is an expansive and ambitious project led by Forestry England, which will deliver landscape scale ecological enhancement across at least 6,000 hectares in Northumberland. This is the largest of four wild areas that have been created as part of the pioneering new Wilder Forests initiative – which aims to restore natural processes within part of the wider estate, putting nature at its heart. 

Wild Kielder’s vision is to create a fully functioning and resilient upland ecosystem. The project will focus on restoring natural processes, expanding connected habitats and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the forest with diverse and sustainable timber production. 

The project aims to offer great educational and engagement opportunities. Visitors to Wild Kielder will have a wilder, more immersive nature experience, getting the chance to encounter Kielder’s unique wildlife, including red squirrels, pine martens, ospreys, and water voles.

KICK STARTING REWILDING

Previous phases of restoration include the reintroduction of water vole and the creation of Kielder Wildwood. Future delivery will focus on diversifying and expanding wooded habitats through planting native trees and encouraging natural regeneration, alongside a programme of peatland restoration. 

Other interventions will include taking a catchment level approach to restoring the hydrological functions of the site through rewetting and slowing the flow of watercourses, improving natural flood management and water quality. 

Natural processes will be kickstarted by introducing a more diverse range of grazing animals. 

Images: Forestry England