Dave Coles, Curator

Reed Bed

September 2010

September 10^th sees the start of a major conservation initiative in the Park, as 250 volunteers from Microsoft, in Reading, join us on a mission to regenerate our reed bed - part of our Habitat Management Programme.

There are several diverse habitats within Beale Park, all of which attract and support an array of British wildlife.   Dave Jones and I had the pleasure of introducing numerous youngsters to one of our habitats during the summer holidays, with a spot of pond dipping; but other key areas include: the wildflower meadow, our woodlands and the reed bed.

By monitoring and managing the upkeep of these habitats we are able to give nature a helping hand when required – hence the arrival of our volunteers who will assist us with the clearing of marshland, old overgrown reeds and the coppice of trees.

This is the first and most challenging phase in the management of the Reed Bed programme, so we are extremely grateful to the Microsoft team for their loan of such muscle power! 

The second phase is due to take place over the winter when we plan to excavate the beds, creating new ponds and smaller marshes in preparation for the planting of Phragmites reed, which will encourage a wilder variety of wildlife into the areas.

Phase three will give our insect, animal and reptile friends the building tools that they need to create their own houses.  Foliage will be cut and stacked, compost mounds will be created and log piles will be formed; giving everything from grass snakes to newts, a place to call home.

Once complete, our fourth and final stage will be to build a hide and a series of platforms from the existing walkway behind the lemurs.  This will enable visitors to view the area and to participate in lots more pond dipping!

Dave Coles, Curator