In an innovative rewilding effort, a nature reserve in Lewes, England, is leveraging the daily routines of local dog walkers to help restore its natural ecosystem. This project, led by the Railway Land Wildlife Trust and funded by Ouse Valley Climate Action, draws inspiration from a historical role played by wolves. Just as wolves once dispersed seeds across vast landscapes by carrying them in their fur, dogs in Lewes are now spreading seeds with specially designed backpacks. These bags are equipped with holes that allow seeds, mixed with sand for better distribution and tracking, to be released as the dogs explore the reserve. The idea is rooted in a successful 2019 initiative in Chile, where dogs helped replant areas destroyed by wildfires. The Lewes project is a pioneering effort in the UK, demonstrating a creative and community-driven approach to rewilding in urban settings.
Early signs of success are already visible, with some seeds beginning to germinate in the reserve. Although most of the seeds are perennials that will take a few years to fully establish, the project’s potential is promising. Dylan Walker, the project manager, sees this as a unique way to engage the community while enriching local wildlife habitats. By involving dog walkers in this ecological endeavor, the project not only helps restore the natural environment but also educates the public on the importance of biodiversity. As the seeds take root and grow, the hope is that this small-scale rewilding effort will have a lasting positive impact on the reserve and serve as a model for other urban nature reserves facing similar challenges.
