BEYOND   2000

T	he countryside is near breaking point. For far too long, we have been taking from it. Now we must start putting something back.

C	onservation is not about keeping things as they are; still less about turning the clock back. It is about creating a better future. It is about managing change in such a way that both protects and
enhances the essential character of Gower, its natural beauty, its farmed landscape, its history, its diverse
flora and fauna. It is about balancing protection with the legitimate well-being of the community.

I	f we remember that Gower was not given to us by our forebears, but lent to us by future generations, we shall not let them. or Gower, down.

“Gower is a happy accident of geological forces, climatic conditions and human enterprise: a harmonious blend of landscape nature and history. This ‘rare patch of the earth’s surface‘ as Wynford Vaughan Thomas called it is a rich mix of natural scenic beauty, farmed landscape and diverse flora” (A guide to Gower 1999).

For more than 50 years the Gower Society has been working for the betterment of Gower, as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, an area of diverse habitat and a place of historic interest. We will continue beyond 2000 to make Gower a special place to live in, to work in and to visit.

Beyond 2000 The Gower Society pledge to continue to :

• encourage an appreciation of the unique qualities of Gower, in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and in the whole Lordship of Gower.
  


• protect the heritage of Gower, its landscape, its historical and its built environment
  


• support sympathetic coastal and marine management
  


• support farming practices that are economically and ecologically sustainable
  


• protect and enhance its diverse wildlife habitats, encouraging its rich animal and plant life
  


• safeguard its rights of way and open spaces
  


• ensure that its common land is kept free from encroachments
  


• Support green tourism that is both sensitive and appropriate.
  


• Work with young people, adults, local communities and organisations in Gower
  


• create and foster links with others who share our views
  
  
• lobby for support for AONBs including Gower for:   enhanced protection
                                                                                  better management
                                                                                  increased financial support