Lunacare Cymru: Research & Re-wilding

Pont-Y-Pandy Woodlands

Funded By

Lunacare Cymru: MEDIA - Community First 

The journey in Pont-Y-Pandy was an adventure for the ages, this magnificent project saw 3411.55 KG of discarded waste cleansed and removed, Pathways rejuvenated and the Fauna rewilded, as we began paving the way for the comprehensive research project about to unfold challenges arose from commercial practices to political awareness the Pont-Y-Pandy rewilding was a total success and before we re-explore the results we first share the full story never before seen until now!

Ladies and Gentlemen Welcome To The Pont-Y-Pandy Rewilding Files

Re-Wilding With Traditional Methods

Rewilding Pont-Y-Pandy woodlands became a process of discovery with each stone turned and every path swept the woodlands began to reveal its self to us in all their glory, The patterns in which water traverses the landscape and how the river sediments get displaced along the woodland floor are but some examples of the glimpse nature provides us at the bigger picture that goes on, Woodland spaces are fascinating zones with an abundance of hidden wisdom and patterns, By using traditional methods we have been able to take an observant stance when carrying out each and every action, Some traditional methods of rewilding and landscaping are 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pont-Y-Pandy woodlands became a space for everyone, With a daily increase in activity and recreation 2021 saw the woodlands at their healthiest point since pre-1945. As the pandemic evolved many residents began to have pride in their community and would carry out their own individual litter picks and waste removals dramatically improving the chances of a successful rewilding project, Cleansed, Rewilded and a beautiful place to explore The successful Rewilding Of Pont-Y-Pandy woodlands. Within as little as two years of the rewilding event in Pont-Y-Pandy, the miracle began to show itself, and localised wildlife began to return to the woodlands. This demonstrated that the removal of waste is vital for spores to germinate effectively and produce vital plant life for the woodlands, It was conclusive that the success and longevity of the Re-Wilding project would depend on the landowners maintaining the grounds and tackling any arising waste accumulation promptly only through vigorous and routine maintained can the efforts last the tests of time and bring back the once thriving Pont-Y-Pandy Woodlands

The Results Of Our Re-Wilding

For The Pont-Y-Pandy Community

Mushrooms are one of the best signs that a woodland ecosystem is recovering and thriving after rewilding efforts. The fungi in these images show that the soil, deadwood, and overall conditions in our local woodland have improved dramatically from our Re-Wilding efforts.

Why Did Mushrooms Reappear?

Fungi are nature's recyclers. They break down dead wood, leaves, and organic material, returning nutrients to the soil and helping trees and plants grow. Their sudden reappearance in your woodland means: Improved Soil Health: Fungi only thrive where organic matter is abundant, and their presence shows the woodland floor has regained the right balance of nutrients and moisture. Better Decomposition Cycles: These mushrooms are actively breaking down fallen trees, branches, and dead leaves, feeding the next generation of plants and fungi. Biodiversity Boost: Healthy fungi populations support insects, animals, and even tree roots, creating a stronger, more resilient ecosystem.

Mycelia: The Hidden Life Beneath the Woodland

Mycelium (plural: mycelia) is the underground root system of fungi. While mushrooms are the visible part (like a fruit on a tree), mycelium is the main body of the fungus, made up of tiny white threads called hyphae that spread through the soil, dead wood, and plant roots.

Why is Mycelium So Important?

Mycelium is one of the most essential life forms in a woodland because it connects trees, plants, and the soil, helping everything grow and thrive. It plays four major roles in the ecosystem:

1. Decomposer – Nature’s Recycler

Breaks down dead trees, leaves, and organic matter.
Returns nutrients to the soil, feeding plants and fungi.
Keeps the woodland floor from becoming clogged with dead material.

2. Soil Health Booster

Creates rich, healthy soil by improving moisture retention.
Breaks down toxins and pollutants.
Prevents erosion by binding soil particles together.

3. The “Wood Wide Web” Plant Communication Network

Mycelium links trees and plants together through their roots.
Helps trees share nutrients and water older trees can even feed young saplings.
Sends chemical signals when plants are under attack from pests or diseases.

4. Supports Wildlife

Many insects, bacteria, and other fungi rely on mycelium for survival.
Provides food for woodland creatures like squirrels, slugs, and insects.
Some mushrooms grown from mycelium are edible, while others protect plants from diseases.

Why This Matters for Rewilding

These mushrooms signal that natural processes are working again. If fungi are returning, it means:

Decomposers are rebalancing the nutrient cycle.
The soil is retaining more moisture and organic material.
A richer food web is forming, attracting insects, small mammals, and birds.