15th November 2021 – clearance of the drainage ditch (Kings Mere) and opening up channels in reed bed
5th February 2022 – first work party, selective clearance of invasive scrub from grassland
3rd March – Work Party, burning of excess scrub cut during 5th February Work Party and creation of dead hedges.
19th March 2022 – Work Party, Litter picking
2nd October 2022 –
Thanks to everyone who came along and helped at the first Work Party of the season yesterday. Further careful removal of Blackthorn and Bramble, that has been taking over the areas of grassland, took place and we certainly made an impression. Blackthorn saplings will continue to try and regrow so controlling this going forward will be a regular management item.
Whislt carrying out the work we had a couple of Buzzards, a Sparrowhawk and a Kestrel overhead whilst a couple of House Martin and six Swallow were a reminder that summer is just about clinging on – it was a glorious day. In the reed bed there was a Cetti’s Warbler and a Blackcap whilst early on an enthusiastic Chiffchaff was signing. A Kingfisher was also seen as the last attendees left late afternoon. A Southern Oak Bush-cricket was found during the morning. This is a relatively new arrival in the south of England, first being noted in 2001. This is one of a small handful noted around Maldon
Early reminder. The next work party will take place on Sunday 30th October 2022 at 10.00am.
Sunday the 30th October 2022
Lots of clearance work done today by all that turned up, thankyou for your support, lovely turn out. Started to clear the bank on the side – south facing – to start the wildlife haven on the banks. See the pictures below.
December the 4th 2022
The next Working Party will take place in two weeks time, on Sunday 4th December, at 10am. We will be completing removal of scrub from the west end of the Reserve to allow the grassland to recover, as well as from the northern slope of the borrowdyke and litter picking.
As usual, I will require your car registration number, should you be parking in Tesco car-park, by no later than the evening of 3rd December. Further reminders will follow.
Best wishes
Simon