29/03/2011

Llyndy Isaf, a 600-acre farm in the Nant Gwynant valley, Gwynedd, will be sold by farmer Ken Owen upon his retirement. The National Trust has launched an appeal to raise funds and buy the holding, which it describes as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity, due to the environmental significance of the site. The Trust describes the farm as "an unspoilt gem."

Part of the Llyn Dinas mountain lake, described as Snowdonia’s jewel in the crown, would also be secured with the holding if the trust reaches its target by New Year 2011. In a press release yesterday (28^th March) the Trust announced its intention to “secure this national treasure for the future and protect this tranquil place.”

Ken Owen, the current farmer at Llyndy Isaf, said the decision to leave the farm was not an easy one, but explained that he wanted a fitting successor to take over after his 35 years there. Mr Owen told the BBC, "It's amazing to see the wildlife returning to places where it hadn't been for years. I'd like that to continue and that is why we have offered the farm to the National Trust as I know they will continue to farm it in the same way that I have."

In their press release, describing Llyndy Isaf as a place of unique countryside and wildlife, the National Trust said, “Llyndy Isaf is an extraordinary farm, as it has been managed with environmental sensitivity – removing destructive rhododendrons, and allowing indigenous woodland, heathland and mire to flourish once again. The farm is now home to amazing birds, including endangered choughs, kingfishers and peregrine falcons.”

The £1m The Trust hopes to raise will secure the farm, a 19th Century farmhouse with outbuildings, a modern farm building, two bunkhouses and a campsite, and allow for "immediate and essential environmental improvements." Richard Neale, Llyn and Snowdonia manager for the Trust, said, "I can't think of a more deserving location for National Trust protection. If we don't raise the money, we will lose Llyndy Isaf. There is, frankly, no plan B."



Why Llyn Dinas is special from National Trust on Vimeo.