Elan Valley's Cnwch and The Gro Woodlands have been recognised as a National Forest for Wales site.

This distinction is part of a broader initiative led by the Welsh Government to create a network of more than 100 woodland sites across the country.

The aim is to tackle nature and climate emergencies and provide a sustainable woodland resource for Wales.

The recognition of National Forest for Wales status was made possible by a £247,000 TWIG (The Woodland Investment Grant) grant awarded to Elan Valley.

This funding, provided by the Welsh Government and The National Lottery Heritage Fund in June 2023, is being used to implement the Celtic Rainforest Expansion Project.

The project, which runs until 2025, involves partners RSPB Cymru and is supported by Natural Resources Wales and Radnorshire Wildlife Trust.

Jen Newman, estates manager for Elan Valley, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, said: "TWIG funding has enabled us to introduce sustainable grazing, improve public access, and increase community awareness and involvement.

"This is vital for protecting and managing our rare habitat within our ancient woodlands."

The TWIG funding has also allowed for the creation of new volunteering and educational opportunities for the local community.

In 2024, nearly 300 students from schools in Rhayader, Llandrindod, and Herefordshire attended ranger-led educational days at Elan Valley.

These sessions provided pupils with valuable outdoor learning experiences, focusing on natural habitats and the distinctive ecosystem of Celtic Rainforests.

The project has also encouraged community participation, with volunteers actively engaged in various conservation activities at Elan Valley throughout the year.

These efforts have significantly contributed to the preservation of important habitats, such as species-rich SSSI meadows and glow-worm breeding sites.

The TWIG Celtic Rainforest Expansion Project will continue at Elan Valley into summer 2025, offering further volunteering opportunities and Forest School days.

Plans are also underway for an even bigger festival in May 2025, featuring traditional woodland demonstrations, guided woodland walks, music, and crafts.