Volunteers learn new skills to protect Bromyard’s new landscape of ponds
Tuesday 10th January 2017
The “Pooling Together Project” has entered its final phase, with volunteers from the local community, braving the elements to learn about the practical conservation of their newly restored ponds on Bromyard Downs, Bringsty Common and the National Trust’s Brockhampton Estate.
Local amphibian and reptile expert, Nigel Hand of Central Ecology, led groups of volunteers and wildlife enthusiasts, as they toured several ponds on the commons. At each pond, Nigel shared his knowledge about each site’s biodiversity and the practical management it will need over several years. The sessions also gave participants a chance to get hands-on, by carrying out some essential winter clearing and drain work on the ponds. This will help maintain their water levels and wildlife to re-establish.
The Pooling Together Project, led by Herefordshire Wildlife Trust and Herefordshire Amphibian and Reptile Team has helped to restore 21 ponds around Bromyard, over the last 2 years.
Project Officer, Lewis Goldwater said “Local volunteers have made a huge contribution to the work of the Pooling Together Project so far. We hope they will continue to make a difference by helping to manage this precious wildlife resource and protect it for the future.”
The project is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, BIFFA Award and Welcome to Our Future.
If you would like to get involved with the project in the future, please contact Lewis Goldwater on 01432 356 872. Further details can be found at: www.herefordshirewt.org/poolingtogether