The strategy aims to reduce crime and protect rural communities and wildlife.

A joint strategy between the Welsh government and Wales’ four police forces has been launched to tackle wildlife and rural crime. It is the first strategy designed specifically for the country’s needs and aims to reduce crimes such as livestock offences, the destruction of wildlife and their habitats, and theft of agricultural machinery.

As well as targeting agricultural and wildlife crimes, the strategy will support mental health in rural communities and address domestic abuse. It will be delivered through six priority groups: bird crime; farm crime; habitats; mammals and European protected species; Welsh police rural supervisors; and mental health and domestic abuse.

Objectives of the strategy include:

• Working in partnership to reduce crime and protect rural communities and wildlife
• Improving the knowledge and skills needed to support victims affected by crime in rural areas especially those most vulnerable
  
• Provide training and opportunities to develop skills in a broad range of wildlife and rural crime issues, maximising use of partner agencies
  

Rob Taylor, Wales’ rural and wildlife crime coordinator said: “Rural and wildlife crime can have a devastating impact, affecting rural communities, farmers, wildlife as well as habitats and our heritage.

“The launch of this first ever made-in-Wales strategy to integrate rural and wildlife crime, will be vital in bringing Welsh government, police forces and partners together alongside my role as coordinator to tackle such offences.”

Rural affairs minister Lesley Griffiths said: “The strategy sets out a clear vision for Wales which is tailored to our country’s needs and with the rural and wildlife crime coordinator as a central point I’m confident it will have a positive impact on our rural communities.”

The strategy is being launched at the Royal Welsh showground at Llanelwedd on Thursday, 27 April 2023.

Dyfed-Powys Police chief constable, Dr Richard Lewis said: “I look forward to welcoming delegates to Llanelwedd, and to the launch of the of the first all Wales wildlife and rural crime strategy, joint between the Welsh government and police.

“This significant and holistic strategy aims to improve rural policing across Wales as well as address the unique challenges faced within our rural communities.

“The event will bring together individuals across the sector and I look forward to hearing about the innovative work taking place to safeguard our countryside and country life.”