Heads and Tales from the Depths of Stow Heath

Another work party, and what a great crowd of enthusiastic volunteers! We were treated to an update by Trevor on all the work that's been done by Dom... continuing our programme of pond restoration here by clearing out slimy muddy 'ponds' and removing all sorts from the murky depths.

What Dom must have thought when he brought this up, I daren't think! 

Health and safety briefing next, then a tour of the site. Very brambly and nettley it was too.

Allocation of tasks came next...

We had Alan, Maria. Elizabeth, Biddy and Seán working hard clearing, scything and trimming all the pathways. Simon, Mark, Andrew and Nick put up post and rail fencing, accompanied by the yaffling of a Green Woodpecker (a new species record for the site). Nigel roped off the heaps of mud from the pond clearing. John whizzed about doing all sorts, while Trevor and Dom were on kissing-gate installation.

Biddy gave us a rundown of events for our diaries whilst we enjoyed our tea break doughnuts, then a final hour or so finishing our tasks – including a couple of quick bridges to improve access. We were surprised that we found only a few amphibians, highlighting the need for habitat improvement.

Phew! What fun...very satisfying getting through so much. Thanks to all our amazing volunteers.

Do get involved, we really have a great time.

Nick Stubbs

August 7th 2025