Surveys used to help understand impact of North Wales wild fire

Credit: Natural Resources Wales

Drone surveys carried out by Natural Resources Wales have shown the extent of a wildfire that burnt in North Wales for four weeks earlier this summer.

The fire on Mynydd Llantysilio, began in July, at the height of this summer’s heatwave.

Initial surveys reveal that 247 hectares, the size of about 247 rugby pitches, has been burnt and there is little vegetation left in the area.

The mountain is a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its heather moorland habitats and upland breeding birds and is home to rare birds like the black grouse and the curlew.

It also provides grazing areas for local farmers and is popular with walkers.

NRW worked with North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Denbighshire Countryside Services to cut back vegetation and create fire breaks to try and stop the fire spreading.

Mynydd Llantysilio is common land. It is part of the Berwyn and South Clwyd Mountains Special Area of Conservation and the Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.