Hedon pond revitalised
Saturday 11th February 2012
The New Year saw a clean start for Horsewell Pond in Hedon.
Staff and volunteers from Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, in partnership with Hedon Town Council, headed down to the pond recently for a day of clearing.
Bulrushes had taken a stronghold in the pond and were taking up vast amounts of water leaving the pond dry. This meant it was in a very sorry state for other plants and animals that would ideally make this their aquatic home. During the pond clearance day these bulrushes were removed, digging out the roots first, giving the pond a chance to restore itself and provide a much needed habitat for species such as the common frog. Commonly found in this area, frogs found on the day were relocated to a safe place whilst the work was going on.
Now it is hoped the pond will have the chance to refill with water, which will encourage a great diversity of plants, animals and insects back to the pond, restoring a typical food chain.
Parish Ponds Project Manager, Jon Traill said:
“Studies have shown that small bodies of water, such as ponds and ditches, are just as important as rivers and lakes in supporting a range of aquatic biodiversity in the agricultural landscape therefore it is essential that we carry out work to restore and create these valuable habitats.”
Funded by LEADER Coast, Wolds, Wetlands and Waterways the Parish Pond Project aims to undertake an assessment of the pond assets across the LEADER area. It is hoped that in doing this communities will become more aware of their wetland heritage and therefore encourage wider appreciation of the village landscape.
For more information on how you could make your pond more wildlife friendly contact Yorkshire Wildlife Trust by emailing us.
Tagged with: LEADER, Parish Ponds