Ecological surveys

  • Birds – a group survey identifying birds by song and sight.
  • Bats – using bat detectors to identify different species.
  • Flora – searching the site under expert guidance.
  • Small mammals – trapping, identifying and releasing resident mammals.
  • Amphibian survey – searching for frogs toads and tadpoles
  • Hydrological survey – understanding the geology and providing the community with a simple explanation.
Habitat management

  • Dilston College – students clearing land and planting a variety of willows, creating an ideal habitat for many animals.
  • Willow craft – workshop to create willow stars and weaving. This will provide a long term sustainable resource for Dilston College students.
  • Fence and wall construction – repairing and building new fences to protect the area.
  • Bird boxes - building workshop followed by installations around the site. One box installed at the school with a camera.
  • Exmoor ponies - On the Mire House field to break up the bog allowing wild flowers to flourish.
Site maintenance

  • Dry stone wall building – BTCV training course and practical wall building to enhance the site.
  • Hard standing – to provide the foundation for a bird hide, parking and tool storage.
  • Ditch repairs – to reduce flooding, protect the road and enhance frog and toad habitats
  • Ponds development – enhances pond life and provide access to view pond creatures
Community Involvement

  • Full day workshop featuring natural dying from plants on the site, tile making with leaf imprints, willow weaving, card making, poetry and painting.
  • Interpretive board built locally providing site information for visitors.
  • Protected box containing diary for all to record observations
  • Leaflet for the whole community and Village Hall Library.
  • Presentations to local school children and community on hydrology, ecology, flora etc of the area.
  • Celebration day planned for October to highlight 2 years of efforts and enhancements.
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