Teulu Goedwig will initially work as a new group within the Permaculture Association, quickly establishing a steering group and becoming independently constituted as a charitable incorporated organisation.

We hope to purchase and manage seven acres of woodland in North Ceredigion, six miles from Machynlleth (grid reference 52.558418, -3.917974). It has direct road access from the A478, with hardstanding and a large barn. Four acres is existing woodland, three acres is rough pasture land with significant sedge growth.

The area is in the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere; awarded status in recognition of how the population value their heritage, while exploring different ways of managing natural resources. Despite this, there are currently no community woodland groups here.

Wet woodlands are some of the UK’s least common wooded habitats. The site has been dormant, and allowed to naturally regenerate. There are rare and endangered plants in the area and numerous invertebrates and insects thrive locally. Eel and fifteen-spined stickleback are the only fish that can survive in the acidic bog water, which are used by resident otters and water voles. Raptors are abundant. We wish to undertake a full habitat survey of the site, and manage to increase biodiversity.

Locally, there is the Dyfi Osprey project; the RSPB Ynyshir Nature Reserve; and Cors Dyfi nature reserve. The local wildlife trust are licenced for the release of a pair of beavers on the opposite side of the river.

The site will be planned and managed from an inclusivity and accessibility perspective - the current project leader is physically disabled, neurodiverse with a mental health disability.

We will work under the care farming/ green care model, and develop a robust package for local community groups. Our most important mission is to make people feel included in this project, from inception to delivery and future project sustainability.

We intend to plant a Forest Garden on the old pasture. Raised beds will be utilised here, both for the planting of trees unsuitable for wet soil, and to help people with mobility constraints. Participants will learn about and participate in traditional woodland skills, and the planting, growing and harvesting of food.