LandLove Magazine May 2016 Back Issue

May really feels like the start of summer and we’ve got some great ideas in this issue for getting outdoors and enjoying the warmer weather. On page 80 we’ve got some brilliant suggestions for keeping the kids occupied by getting them to engage with their surroundings and have some outdoor adventures. From geocaching to sleeping in a homemade shelter, foraging to whittling, there’s something to keep all ages occupied over the school holidays. If you enjoy spending time out in the fresh air and would like to spend some of your free time caring for the environment, why not go on a conservation volunteering holiday this year? We’ve picked a selection of fascinating projects you could get involved with, including preserving red squirrels, uncovering historic properties and helping island communities. It’s a great way to meet like-minded new friends too! Turn to page 96 to discover more. Talking of conservation, did you know that trials are underway to reintroduce beavers into the British countryside? On page 107 we take a look at these fascinating mammals and learn more about how they are being reintroduced into our rivers. We also get up close to the puffins that visit our shores at this time of year (p.90). These much-loved seabirds are fascinating creatures and it’s well worth going on a boat trip to see them for yourself this summer. May also sees our hedgerows starting to burst back into life. On page 46 you’ll find some wonderful recipes using wild plants. So keep your eyes peeled for nettles, berries, elderflowers and wild garlic next time you go for a stroll in the countryside and you could be rustling up some of our delicious dishes when you get home. The red fruit pudding with elderflower sauce is well worth trying!