South Cumbria Species Restoration | University of Cumbria

Back On Our Map (BOOM) - The South Cumbria Species Restoration Project

Back On Our Map (BOOM) is a pioneering new project supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the University of Cumbria, and supported by a wider partnership including Morecambe Bay Partnership, Natural England, Cumbria Wildlife Trust and Forestry England.

The team work with communities to restore the landscape, and reintroduce a suite of locally threatened or extinct species to the distinctive lowland fells of south Cumbria and the coast of Morecambe Bay. By working together, the project will restore and connect whole ecosystems to reverse the decline in biodiversity through community action.

The four year project (2019-2022) is fighting to save the future for the hazel dormouse, the Duke of Burgundy butterfly and the small blue butterfly in South Cumbria. Seven rare plants are also to be reintroduced to their habitats including: goldilocks aster, greater and oblong sundew, green-winged orchid, maidenhair fern, spiked speedwell, and aspen. Community based feasibility studies are also being undertaken to support the potential reintroduction of two further species, the corncrake and pine marten.

What are the species?

BOOM is reintroducing and expanding the range of the hazel dormouse, Duke of Burgundy and small blue butterfly, goldilocks aster, greater and oblong sundew, green-winged orchid, maidenhair fern, spiked speedwell, and aspen. Community based feasibility studies are also being undertaken to support the potential reintroduction of two further species, the corncrake and pine marten.

How can I get involved?

We have a packed programme of volunteering and community events.

Students from the University and community volunteers have the opportunity to gain skills such as plant propagation, tree planting, monitoring of rare species and assessing and managing habitats. You can explore the spectacular landscapes and nature of the project area by joining an outdoor work party and spend time with knowledgeable and inspiring specialists.

Join in with our wide ranging activities and events programmes. Training events, talks and walks will be available throughout the year along with community bio-blitzes, art exhibitions, schools programmes and family nature sessions, to inspire all generations.

To volunteer, sign up for events or to join our mailing list for more information contact michelle@morecambebay.org.uk

Share your stories, memories and knowledge

Do you remember growing up with the sound of the corncrake in the fields? Or the thrill of chasing butterflies? Have you spent time studying or painting plants and flowers from our area? Perhaps you wandered the limestone pavements around Silverdale as a youngster- how has the landscape changed? Maybe you worked at the steelworks in Barrow or one of the industrial sites near Millom that are now a haven for wildlife? Or are you from a farming family who has seen land management change over the years? Do know why field names or landscape features have a particular name or nickname?

If you have insights or memories of the nature or local history of the South Cumbria and Morecambe Bay area or even of these 12 species, we’d love to hear from you. You can contact Michelle Cooper to learn more.

Project Partners & Funders

We are pleased to be working in partnership with Cumbria Wildlife Trust, Natural England, the Forestry Commission and Morecambe Bay Partnership with generous support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. We will also be working with world leading conservation organisations like Kew Gardens, a wide range of community growers, prisoners from HMP Haverigg, young farmers and a network of local stakeholders, groups, landowners and individuals.