‘Roots – 200 years of one family’s history through mining, farming and conservation in the Ullswater Valley’ with Maddy Teasedale
We are happy to announce that FOUW will continue its 2024 ‘Understanding Ullswater Evening Talks’ with a talk on Thursday 3rd October by Maddy Teasdale entitled:
‘Roots – 200 years of one family’s history through mining, farming and conservation in the Ullswater Valley’
The talk will take place in Glenridding Village Hall at 19.30 and on ZOOM.
Maddy Teasdale’s family have lived and worked in the Ullswater valley for over 200 years, as she and many of her family still do today. She will talk about the history of her family, the places they have lived, and how they been involved in mining and farming through the centuries, being part of as well as witnessing, social, cultural, and economic changes in the valley during this long period.
She and her husband Dan now run Ullswater Catchment Management CIC, a pioneering organisation, set up by them in response to the devastating Storm Desmond flooding in December 2015 which dramatically impacted the communities who live in the valley. UCM CIC focuses on the Ullswater Valley catchment area and works closely with farmers and landowners, carrying out environmental projects and natural flood management in the farmed landscape. Their aim is to show that farming and nature can coexist, and to demonstrate how environmental improvements on a farm can contribute to an economically viable and sustainable future farmed landscape.
In only 8 years they have become a leader in this field, being a joint winner in 2024 of the UK River Prize for their catchment scale approach, as well as winning a substantial Green Recovery Challenge award in association with the National Trust.
In common with all our talks, this talk is free, but donations will be welcome. 50 % of donations received will go to FOUW, and 50% to Maddy’s charity of choice.
Gordon Lightburn, Chair of FOUW said: ‘Being recognised as pioneers in the field of catchment management is an outstanding achievement. Their deep family roots in the Ullswater valley are both an advantage but also a challenge in carrying out UCM’s mission. Their sensitive approach to engaging with farmers and the local community has however met with great success, as has their embrace of a proactive approach to nature – friendly farming and enhancing biodiversity. Their 2024 prizes are a real testament to the quality and appreciation of their work.’
Please register by writing to Tim Clarke at info@ullswaterheritage.org, indicating whether you will attend in person or on ZOOM.