There are more than 1,600 sites found on both public and private land in Cumbria. They vary in shape and size, and can be found almost anywhere in the county - from the coast to the top of fells. The 'short guide' provides more information about these sites.

County Wildlife Sites in Cumbria are designated and reviewed at a county level by the Site Selection Panel which meets a few times a year, convened by Cumbria Wildlife Trust (CWT). The Site Selection Panel ensure that sites are assessed against the strict selection criteria described in the CWS Selection Guidelines (see button on right).

Potential sites are initially identified through the study of existing habitat survey data and aerial photos. Site visits are then carried out by an experienced ecological surveyor who records wildlife habitats and species found on the site. Survey results are then assessed by an expert panel of ecologists from organisations across Cumbria who make up the Site Selection Panel (from the different partnership organisations). All sites meeting the necessary standard are selected as County Wildlife Sites.

A new project started in 2024 to assess all existing County Wildlife Sites as most sites have either never been surveyed or the last survey to assess habitat and condition was more than 15 years ago. The project is led by Cumbria Wildlife Trust in collaboration with Cumbria Biodiversity Data Centre. While new sites are not currently being considered, the existing 1,603 sites will be visited over the next few years to ensure that all are still providing much needed space for nature.

For more information about County Wildlife Sites and the project to assess all existing sites, please contact Cumbria Wildlife Trust at contact@cumbriawildlifesites.org.uk or visit the Cumbria Wildlife Trust website.