National Trust in tune with digital bird monitoring project
Dr Megan Lewis, from Harper Adams University, with the Green Box monitoring device and the data it is receiving
The National Trust is taking part in a bird monitoring project enabled by the River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region (RSPAWIR) and Harper Adams University.
The Green Box Project is being extended to Attingham Park, near Shrewsbury, and will involve the deployment of a smart sensor at the site which will allow researchers to collect real-time data on bird populations and increase understanding of how Attingham supports the local bird population.
The initiative, which has been in use by Harper Adams for several months and extended to multiple sites across Shropshire through the RSPAWIR, demonstrates the effectiveness of advanced wireless technology and AI in species observation.
Rob Wilson Shropshire Council Cabinet member with responsibility for digital, said:-
“This kind of continuous, non‑intrusive data collection will deepen our understanding of local species and help inform how we protect and enhance our natural environment.
“I’m delighted that Attingham Park will be part of this wider network, showcasing how innovation can support biodiversity, strengthen conservation efforts and engage our communities in safeguarding Shropshire’s wildlife for the future.”
Dr Megan Lewis, from Harper Adams University, said:-
“We are confident the quality of the data we are gathering will help support conservation planning, inform policy decisions, and contribute to national biodiversity databases.
“We are looking forward to share our results with conservationists and the wider public.”
Emily Burdon, for the National Trust, added:-
“The Green Box Project not only enhances our ability to monitor environmental and ecological changes but also fosters community engagement in conservation efforts. The results will be of interest to our visitors as well as our volunteers who help care for and maintain the site.
“We are excited to see the detailed results from Attingham and being able to link those to our nature recovery project.”
The RSPAWIR programme, managed by Shropshire Council and funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, is one of 10 UK Innovation Regions. It focuses on accelerating the adoption of wireless-enabled technologies across water management, agri-tech, and public sector services within the River Severn catchment.
