The National Trust is looking for a shepherd to care for its flock of Welsh Mountain sheep in the foothills of Snowdonia.

The job has been created thanks to a conservation project part funded by Natural Resources Wales which aims to study how traditional, hefted flocks can be managed for the benefit of conservation.

Arwyn Owen, manager at the National Trust farm, Hafod-y-Llan, describes the job as an opportunity of a lifetime but warns it won’t be for everyone.

“Snowdon is wet and the work can be lonely, but for a shepherd that loves sheep, sheepdogs and walking it will be the perfect job,’’ he said.

“By combining the traditional skills and knowledge of shepherds as well as new conservation approaches, we are trying to demonstrate that farming and conservation can work successfully together.”

The farm base sits within the Yr Wyddfa National Nature Reserve and Natura 2000.

Sabine Nouvet, the National Trust’s conservation ranger for Snowdonia and Llyn, said the project would be closely monitored to measure its effect on the mountain vegetation as well as on the traditional, hefted flock.

“Our aim is that in five years we will have better habitats, a better understanding of how sheep can be managed for the benefit of conservation, and more skilled shepherds on the mountains,’’ she said.

The job opportunity is suitable for anyone with experience of shepherding and an interest in wildlife conservation. For more information or to express an interest contact Arwyn Owen on 01766 890473.

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