Open Country

Have you ever heard of a black poplar? You've probably seen one, at least in a painting, even if you didn't recognise it as such. The black poplar is Britain's most endangered tree, and features in Constable's famous work, The Hay Wain. Martha Kearney is in Suffolk to see black poplars at Flatford Mill, the location in the painting, and to talk to botanical artist Ruth Wharrier about painting from nature. With tree wardens David Appleton and Fe Morris, Martha surveys new trees on the riverbank nearby. She finishes by visiting a new clone bank of trees at Jimmy's Farm, which are thriving between the wolves and polar bears. Without active support, this native British tree could disappear from our countryside altogether. Suffolk Tree Warden Network: https://www.suffolktreewardens.org.uk https://ruthwharrier.com https://www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/adult-learning/botanical-artProducer: Beth O'Dea

Tucked away in a wooded valley on the outskirts of Bristol is a magical woodland nature reserve, Snuff Mills. Helen Mark discovers what lies beneath the trees, a now peaceful place with a history of heavy industry, where milling and stone quarrying has left behind a stunning playground for walkers and climbers. Local residents John, Beryl and Margaret grew up next to the quarry and witnessed its transformation from their secret playground to a busy public park. Engineer Geoff Wallis helped to literally unearth a fascinating piece of industrial history, and Steve England shows Helen the natural secrets of the valley. Following the stones of the quarry Helen crosses the river and finds the grounds of what was once Bristol’s asylum and – Helen hears from volunteer Anwyl Cooper-Willis - a landscape carefully designed to be therapeutic for patients and speed their recovery. But where does the name Snuff Mills come from? Is it really one of the most haunted places in Bristol? And which Hollywood star has a connection with the Asylum's story?Presented by Helen Mark Produced by Beth Sagar-Fenton Assistant production by Ellie Richold Series Producer: Emma Campbell

Discover the charm of Fair Isle, Britain's most isolated inhabited island. The local economy thrives on knitting and birdwatching. Join Martha Kearney and ornithologist Alex Penn as they ring puffins and explore unique bird species. Meet knitwear designer Marie Brahat and learn about transforming sheep wool into Fair Isle creations. Plus, find out how the community supports its tiny school with just two pupils, highlighting the island's spirit of cooperation and resilience.

John Cole from Menai Heritage shares his enthusiasm for the rich local history surrounding the Menai Strait, focusing on the iconic bridges. He discusses Thomas Telford's engineering marvel, the Menai Suspension Bridge, which is nearing its 200th anniversary, and the reconstruction of the Britannia Bridge after a devastating fire. The podcast also delves into the Strait's challenging tidal dynamics and its vibrant marine ecosystems, alongside insights into the cultural heritage linked to Church Island and its historic church.

Martha Kearney discovers the Ice Age ponds in Norfolk, called pingos, which are being brought back to life, and provide a home for the Northern Pool Frog. It's the UK's rarest amphibian and had become extinct in this country, but it's now breeding there again and Martha is keen to see one. With 400 pingos, Thompson Common is the most important site for pond wildlife in the country and also holds a precious store of seeds.Norfolk Wildlife Trust: https://www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/ThompsonCommonFind out more about The Pingo Trail Walk: https://www.explorenorfolkuk.co.uk/pingo-trail.htmlWork supported by Natural England’s Species Recovery Programme.Producer: Beth O'Dea

Discover the transformative 'Miles Without Stiles' initiative aimed at making the beautiful Lake District accessible for all. Caz Graham navigates with a group of mobility vehicles, revealing the challenges of recent trail upgrades. Will Clark shares his inspiring journey after a life-changing accident, showing how technology allows him to enjoy nature again. Personal stories intertwine with expert insights, highlighting both the joys and concerns surrounding accessibility in outdoor spaces, fostering a deep connection with the stunning landscapes.

Sound artist Kathy Hinde, known for her immersive sound sculptures, discusses her project 'Listen to the Voices of the Fen' celebrating Wicken Fen's rich biodiversity. She shares insights into crafting a mystical aeolian harp that sings with the wind, emphasizing mindfulness in woodworking. The conversation also touches on the significance of Wicken Fen as a habitat for endangered species and features local volunteer Gerard Smallwood, who highlights the workings of a historic wooden windpump. Join them on a journey through sound, landscape, and conservation.

Tucked in behind Dorset's famous Chesil Beach is a unique and beautiful place - the Fleet Lagoon. Martha Kearney explores a thousand year history of human guardianship of birds on the lagoon. On the way she gets a close-up view of little tern dating platforms on the Fleet itself, learns why the swans of the ancient Abbotsbury Swannery are much safer now and who they hate the most, and - of course - learns to build a nest. Contributors include:Angela Thomas - Assistant Warden, Chesil and Fleet Nature Reserve Chris Goding - RSPB Project Officer & Assistant Warden, Chesil Little Tern Recovery Project Steve Groves - Swanherd, Abbotsbury SwanneryWith thanks to Dorset Wildlife Trust. Presenter: Martha Kearney Producer: Beth Sagar-Fenton

Sarah Murray, Director of Underfall Yard, shares fascinating insights into Bristol's maritime heritage. She discusses the significance of Underfall Yard in maintaining the floating harbour and its historical transformation. The conversation dives into the impact of past fires on the yard and its gradual restoration. Sarah also highlights the balance between industrial operations and wildlife conservation, showcasing innovative projects designed to preserve local ecosystems alongside port activities. Listeners will appreciate the rich history and ongoing evolution of this vibrant port city.

Explore the windswept history of the Fylde peninsula, where windmills have stood for centuries. Delve into the enchanting tales of a notable windmill and its impact on local literature. Discover groundbreaking efforts to restore peat bogs and their role in climate regulation. From re-wetting landscapes to carbon farming, the conversation shifts to modern wind-driven activities like kite surfing and land yachting. Experience the thrill of this niche sport, its engineering marvels, and the vibrant community surrounding it.