The Slurry Lagoon reed-bed has been relieved of the trees that were threatening to turn it into a wood. In order to avoid the necessity of repeating this exercise, we need to regularly mow the reeds, cutting developing saplings along with them. The whole reed-bed cannot be mown in one go, so each year we intend to mow one-fifth, in a five year cycle.
This is a very labour intensive job and so we need more volunteers to come and help on the day. Once the reeds are cut they need to be removed from the reed-bed, so that they do not decompose where they fall, creating more soil for trees and other plants. They will be raked up and deposited at the side of the reed-bed to make habitat piles for small mammals, amphibians and invertebrates.
If you are able to help please come along in the morning. We meet inside the metal gates in the small car park at 09.00hrs. Park on Teal Close and walk along the Ouse Dyke to the footbridge. Follow the Willow Walk and you will arrive at the car park. Please be on time so that we can allocate tools to you. Wear stout shoes and thorn-proof gloves. If it has been raining the slurry surface will be very slippery and sticky so wear appropriate clothing. Remember to follow the social distancing guidelines.