New lab to become centre for investigating uplands
A purpose-built laboratory at RSPB Wild Haweswater in Penrith is intended to bring scientists, universities and students together to study Cumbria’s uplands and their response to nature recovery. The facility aims to strengthen research and collaboration that can guide landscape restoration in Cumbria and other upland areas.
The lab was funded by the estate of ornithologist Denis Summers-Smith. It will support work by Cumbria Connect across Wild Haweswater, the Lowther estate and the Lowther Valley, whose landscapes include peatlands and rainforest that store carbon and help manage water. Researchers also hope the facility will help train future environmental scientists.
- New lab opens at RSPB Wild Haweswater in Penrith.
- It will support research into upland nature recovery.
- The project also aims to train environmental scientists.