New Cumbria laboratory to advance high-altitude science and nature recovery

A new purpose-built laboratory in Penrith will give scientists, universities and students a base to investigate how Cumbria’s upland landscapes and nature are responding to recovery.

The RSPB Wild Haweswater research facility is intended to become a hub for high-altitude science. It will bring together researchers and conservationists to carry out fieldwork, share expertise and develop new collaborations.

A new base for nature recovery research

The laboratory was funded by the estate of the late ornithologist Dennis Summers Smith.

RSPB’s Will Peach said: “We want to build on Dennis’s commitment to field ecology and conservation research, creating a lasting legacy that will benefit both science and nature recovery in Cumbria and beyond.”

The new facility will support current research carried out through Cumbria Connect. Its activities and scientific monitoring span Wild Haweswater, the Louther Estate and the Louther Valley.

Protecting Cumbria’s upland landscapes

Cumbria Connect conservation scientist Dr Mo Verhoeven explained that the region contains many distinctive environments, including peatlands and rainforests. These landscapes play an important role in storing carbon and managing water.

“The Cumbrian Highlands are extremely important for nature recovery,” he said.

“We hope this institute will provide a place for researchers, students and conservationists to work together to build the evidence needed to guide restoration both here in Cumbria and further afield in the highland landscapes.

“The aim is to make Cumbria a stronger hub for high-altitude science.”

“Equally important, it will help train the next generation of environmental scientists,” he said.

Training future environmental scientists

Cumbria Connect is part of a plan funded by the Arcadia Fund, co-founded by one of the heirs to Tetra Pak’s fortune.

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