THESE days we tend to think that "the government," whatever its colour, has nothing to do with conservation, when actually lots of taxpayers' money is being channelled into the capable hands of influential bodies staffed by competent scientists.

Two of the most important of these organisations, the Environment Agency and English Nature, both have offices in the North West. English Nature has its North Western offices at Pier House, Wallgate, Wigan WN3 4AL.

From this base, three major National Nature Reserves are organised:

AINSDALE SAND DUNES, which has populations of the rare amphibian the natterjack toad and the even rarer reptile the sand lizard, plus the equally important sand dune plants.

Among rarities such as the dune helleborine there are also splendid growths of grass of parnassus, a very pretty white flower which grows in damper areas.

Dunes need careful managing and English Nature has to achieve a delicate balance. Room has been skilfully left for the red squirrel population, which needs trees, and the dune wildlife, which needs open spaces.

THE RIBBLE ESTUARY is a real contrast to Ainsdale. The marshes are perfect for wintering waders and wildfowl. For many years English Nature has managed this area around Southport and in my opinion this body has never been given the credit which it deserves.

GAIT BARROWS, an area of limestone pavement in the Arnside/Silverdale area. Limestone pavement is one of the most threatened habitats in Britain and Gait Barrows is a fine example.

Once again careful management has resulted in the protection of several rare species of orchid and butterflies. This is a perfect place to enjoy wildlife in summer.

To survive, these limestone areas need to be selectively grazed and the introduction of a small herd of Exmoor ponies will achieve this. They have already proved their worth in the chalkland areas of Kent and these charming creatures will be a welcome addition to tour wildlife.

English Nature also works hard to promote Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) in our area and these will be described in a future article. An SSSI protects the designated habitat from future development.

In the meantime those who plan to explore the three National Nature reserves can contact the Wigan office or directly: Ainsdale Sand Dunes, 01704578774; Ribble Estuary, 01704 225624; Gait Barrows, 01254 702181.