2010 is the United Nations International  Year for Biodiversity (IYB) and the historic preservation of important sites throughout the UK is important for future generations. WHGT hope to promote an awareness of Welsh Historic Parks and Gardens which are an important resource for biodiversity. Although Wales is a small nation it has varied geology and geography and its historic parks and gardens have a wide variety of flora and fauna amongst its cultural and historic treasures.

Biodiversity is the total variety and richness of living organisms found in a place and the natural supporting processes.  Biodiversity can indicate the health status of certain biological systems. Historic parks and gardens provide valuable habitat for many diverse plants and animals.

Biodiversity is often richer in the heritage landscape particularly areas which have remained undisturbed for years. Where the land has not been intensively farmed the impacts of overgrazing and chemical interference has not caused degradation of the site and this allows native species to thrive. 

Biodiversity is essential for health and life. Plants and animals help to regulate and clean the environment as they naturally filter pollution and mitigate weather impacts on our environment such as flood water.

Aesthetically biodiversity enhances quality of life and ensures a healthy ecosystem. 

Many park and garden sites provide sustainable habitats for wildlife and plants and these need intelligent management and conservation to maintain and enhance biodiversity.

This years Wales Biodiversity Week is running from Sat 6th - Sun 14th June

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In 1944 Nikolaus Pevsner said that gardens are Britain's greatest contribution to the visual arts. Many gardens today are taken for granted yet it is surprising how vulnerable and unprotected they are in the face of development and modern living.

According to Visit Britain gardens are the fourth most popular reason for tourists to visit Britain. WHGT aims to promote and conserve the garden heritage of Wales for all to enjoy. Many gardens deserve to be better known and better cherished. The gardens in Wales can delight and surprise in many different ways. The pictures here reflect some personal moments of delight.