Spending time in nature can lift mood, ease stress and support physical health. Improving visitor facilities at two of the Trust’s most visited reserves will help more people feel welcome, comfortable and confident exploring these wild places. Those positive experiences can also deepen people’s connection with local wildlife and inspire them to help protect it. 

Both reserves offer visitors the chance to glimpse a kingfisher or wading birds such as lapwings, experiences that can spark a lifelong appreciation of native wildlife. The planned improvements include updated interpretation in the hides, with clear, engaging information for regular birders and first-time visitors alike, that will help more people understand what they are seeing, share their discoveries and feel part of protecting these special places.  

A significant grant from the Landfill Communities Fund will cover much of the work at both reserves. Before the Trust can access it, however, it must raise at least £10,000 in Contributing Third Party (CTP) payments. These donations are paid to the landfill operator and unlock the full value of the grants, making every contribution worth substantially more to the projects. 

Donations to the Autumn Appeal will provide the essential final contribution needed to unlock the grants and turn these improvements into reality at both reserves. 

Langford Lakes Nature Reserve  

At Langford Lakes, the Trust wants to remove barriers between people and wildlife. Supporters have already contributed towards an accessible boardwalk across the muddy ground near the Sand Martin hide. Further donations to the Autumn Appeal are now needed before work can begin and the boardwalk can become part of a circular route around the whole lake, enabling more visitors to explore the reserve with confidence. 

Lower Moor Farm Nature Reserve 

At Lower Moor Farm, the Trust wants to make it easier for everyone to experience the wildlife and beauty of this special place. A new replacement visitor hub (subject to planning) with toilets and engaging interpretation will provide a more welcoming starting point and help people discover more of the reserve. New benches will offer places to pause, take in the views and enjoy the restorative feeling of being surrounded by nature. 

To support the Autumn Appeal, visit www.wiltshirewildlife.org/appeals.  

Contributing Third Party donations are paid directly to the landfill operator to release the environmental grants, rather than into the charity’s accounts, so they are not eligible for Gift Aid. Their impact is nevertheless multiplied: a £25 donation can unlock around £250 for the projects, while £100 can unlock £1,000. 

To help unlock this vital funding and support better experiences for people and nature at Lower Moor Farm and Langford Lakes, visit our appeals page.