Wildfowling in Wales receives boost from the BASC Wildlife Fund
The BASC Wildlife Fund has awarded its first loan in Wales to the Wentloog Wildfowling and Conservation Association.
- - Features
- - Features
Wildfowlers assemble for the BASC national conference
The 2025 BASC National Wildfowling Conference returned after a break of several years. It was held on Saturday 29 March at the Crowne Plaza Birmingham NEC Hotel and emerged as a resounding success.
Blessed with radiant sunshine – which is always a bonus – the conference attracted a gathering of more than 100 guests from all corners of the UK and further afield. Delegates from 34 BASC-affiliated wildfowling clubs and representatives from governing bodies such as Natural England and Natural Resources Wales were also in attendance.
Wildfowling conference – the agenda
The agenda was action-packed, with informative sessions delivered by prominent figures in the field. Cy Griffin from FACE kicked off the day. He gave a comprehensive overview of EU policies pertaining to wildfowl harvest, setting the stage for robust conversations on conservation and sustainability.
Professor Tom Cameron from the University of Essex presented the results of various wildfowl research initiatives. He also offered a stark insight into advancing sustainable hunting practices by drawing on cutting-edge scientific findings.
Steve Clifton of Natural England underscored the critical role of collaborative partnerships in working for nature recovery. He highlighted the synergies between wildfowlers and others in safeguarding our natural habitats.
Chris Kelly, chairman of Preston and District Wildfowlers’ Association, shared heartfelt anecdotes about his club’s history and conservation initiatives. He illustrated the grassroots efforts underpinning the wildfowling community’s dedication to environmental stewardship.
Guardians of sustainable shooting
BASC’s Heather Warrender’s exploration of the BASC Wing Survey provided a fascinating glimpse into wildfowl migration patterns and population dynamics. It illustrated how the survey provides data-driven insights, which can inform policymakers on management strategies.
BASC’s Dr Cat McNicol and James Green delved into the intricacies of sustainable shooting practices and the recommendations set out in BASC’s new sustainable shooting code of practice for wildfowl quarry species. They emphasised the organisation’s commitment to the long-term future of wildfowl harvest and species conservation in the UK.
The day culminated in a memorable and light-hearted address by Chris Green, aka the Cornish Countryman. His storytelling left the audience in stitches and some in tears… of laughter. Chris’ personal anecdotes resonated deeply, celebrating the camaraderie and shared passion that define the wildfowling community and everything that comes with the sport.
The enduring popularity of the wildfowling conference
Adding to the event were a range of trade stands, including Final Approach Decoys UK, Glade Deer Management and Westcountry Films. The BASC Wildlife Fund was integral to the event, giving guests an opportunity to learn more about its mission.
The conference ended with a raffle draw and the results of the sealed bid auction. Collectively, almost £3,000 was raised for the BASC Wildlife Fund.
The 2025 BASC National Wildfowling Conference was not only proof of the enduring popularity of the event but also a showcase of the wildfowling community’s dedication to responsible and sustainable shooting practices and management of wildfowl species.
Click on the banner below to learn more about the BASC Wildlife Fund, including how you can apply for funding for a project, or for details of how to make a donation.
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Chris Wright
Lancashire born and bred, Chris is BASC’s wildfowling advisor. Now calling Monmouthshire home, Chris exemplifies an unyielding interest and dedication to field sports, with a particular focus on the exhilarating pursuit of wildfowl along the nation’s coastline.
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