More Scrub bashing on the Scrapes

I was happy for the help today as we continued to tackle encroaching scrub on the Scrapes.

Foxglove has many shallow ponds that provide a range of habitats, unfortunately ponds such as these are also more vulnerable to encroachment by Willow, Ash, Birch and Brambles.

Overhanging branches quickly begin to shed leaves, which can cause ponds to become nutrient rich over time in a process called eutrophication. Nutrient enrichment further increasing the growth of plants and algae may lead to oxygen depletion of water bodies. 

Aside from the dangers of eutrophication the roots of nearby trees can also damage the structure of ponds, and disrupt the intricate waterways that criss-cross the Reserve. 

Aside from the work being carried out on the Scrapes we've also been lucky enough to have extra volunteers removing saplings from the Heath and cutting lawns and Net Rides in time for CES 5.