HABITAT IMPROVEMENT 2008

 I have received many comments recently about the importance of Woodhall Fields and other areas of the Vale south of the Visitor Centre. The recent discussions that have taken place have unsettled a number of people who hitherto have felt secure because of the status of Country Park.

They have watched the area improve, largely because the river quality has improved. Improvements to the quality of the grassland will further help to increase the diversity of our wildlife, starting with the insects and small mammals.

It would help if the legal position, whereby nesting birds are protected by law, is, in future, stated on all our Nature Reserves as it is in other parts of Europe and beyond. I do not know about other authorities, but I do know that, in the Vale, people do disturb the nesting birds, however unintentionally.

People who are aware of the legal situation would feel more confident about reminding people of the obligation to avoid disturbing the birds.

They may also confidently teach their children the importance of this rule of law.

Wildlife habitat Improvement in our Vale is an investment in the health and pride of local people and cannot be undervalued.