The lockdown has meant unprecedented numbers of visitors at Nature Reserves and Parks across the country. It has been encouraging seeing an increasing number of families with children enjoying the sites, getting out enjoying nature and even taking reference books out to identify flora and fauna, inspiring future generations in conservation and hopefully the next David Attenborough or Chris Packham.
Most people have been respectful of our sites, but unfortunately increasing visitors has also attracted the rise of antisocial episodes like fly tipping, dirt bike riding and vandalism, not least at the Hills & Holes where there has been an increase of litter throughout the site, damage to gates and fences and evidence of trampling which is one of the most damaging elements to the NNR and can destroy plant communities, so please keep to the main paths so future generations can continue to enjoy the wildflower spectacle we are all very privileged to witness. Disappointingly someone went picking Pasque flowers and orchids! This has been reported to rural crime team who have been dealing with several incidents on the NNR’s and will continue to do so. The site at Hills and Holes is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Thankfully local residents have continued to report this and other antisocial behaviour and where possible action has been taken to protect help protect our reserve.
As the lockdown eases, so hopefully does the pressure on these delicate National Nature Reserves (NNRs). September will see the return of our flock of Herbridean, Shetland and Herdwick sheep. They have been ‘summering’ at Monks Wood NNR, Huntingdonshire. There they have grazed the two wild flower meadows within the wood, doing a fantastic job of keeping the willow at bay and grazing down the coarse grasses. Please keep an eye on the Parish news and the Hills & Holes notice boards for updates of their arrival and what compartment they will be situated in. Dogs will still not be permitted in the compartment with the sheep and it is an offence to do so.
The winter 20/21 will also see the ongoing battle to curb the scrub incursion across the site, both staff and contractors will be involved in scrub clearance in all compartments as well as re-fencing the stretch between the NW & SW compartments. Again please look out for updates on the notice board as some areas will inevitably be closed off for Health & Safety reasons.
Thank you for your continued support at Barnack Hills & Holes and enjoy the hot weather while it lasts.
Steve, Natural England Warden