Directory of Nature Charities in Derbyshire
Derbyshire is home to an exceptionally varied natural environment, from the limestone dales, moorlands and peatlands of the Peak District to the rivers, wetlands, woodlands, meadows and farmland of the county’s lowlands. These contrasting landscapes support a rich diversity of wildlife and habitats, with conservation organisations working to protect threatened species, restore damaged ecosystems, improve ecological connections and encourage communities to become involved in caring for nature.
This directory brings together Derbyshire-based and Derbyshire-focused charities, conservation organisations, environmental partnerships, wildlife societies and specialist recording groups. It includes organisations working across the county as well as those concentrating on particular species, habitats or landscapes, providing a useful starting point for anyone wishing to support, volunteer with or learn more about nature conservation in Derbyshire.
Nature Charities in Derbyshire
Including registered charities, CICs, coalitions, alliances, and related organisations.
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust is the county’s leading independent nature conservation charity. It manages nature reserves, protects important habitats and species, campaigns for nature recovery and supports practical conservation, volunteering, wildlife recording and community involvement across Derbyshire.
The Peak District National Park Authority works to conserve and enhance the natural environment of the Peak District. Its nature work includes habitat restoration, species conservation, peatland recovery and landscape-scale nature recovery across the National Park.
Derbyshire Biological Records Centre collects and manages information about the county’s wildlife and habitats. Holding more than 3.7 million records, it provides important evidence for conservation, ecological research and planning and works closely with local recorders and nature groups.
Derbyshire Ornithological Society promotes the recording, study and conservation of birds and their habitats throughout the county. Founded in 1954, it maintains extensive bird records, publishes the annual Derbyshire Bird Report and organises meetings and field activities.
Derbyshire Bat Conservation Group is a registered charity dedicated to protecting bats, their roosts and feeding habitats across the county. It undertakes surveys, monitoring, bat-box projects, recording and public education, while maintaining a substantial database of Derbyshire bat records.
Derbyshire Amphibian and Reptile Group promotes the study and conservation of amphibians and reptiles throughout Derbyshire. Its activities include practical conservation, surveys, wildlife recording, training and the coordination of seasonal toad-crossing patrols.
Derby Natural History Society encourages the study and enjoyment of the natural world through talks, field meetings, recording and publications. Its interests cover a broad range of natural history and provide opportunities for people to learn more about the wildlife and environment of Derbyshire.
Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Entomological Society promotes the study, recording and conservation of insects and other land-based arthropods. Its work includes maintaining biological records and encouraging research into insect populations and their conservation across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and neighbouring areas.
The National Forest Company coordinates the creation and long-term development of The National Forest across parts of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Staffordshire. Its work increases woodland and habitat cover, improves biodiversity and creates more connected green landscapes across this former industrial region.
Derbyshire Swift Conservation supports the protection of swifts and their nesting sites across the county. Its work includes raising awareness, encouraging recording and helping communities create and retain suitable nesting opportunities for these declining migratory birds.