Four members turned out for the penultimate work party of 2016. The main aim was to improve the amount of light reaching the edges of the enclosed garden area (Cyril’s Patch). The ground vegetation had been cut in preparation so it just remained to rake this up, then most of the loose rocks were moved to underneath the hedge allowing us to attend to cutting out the higher overhanging branches. Finally, selective pruning of the lowest branches and the end result admired – a much more open and light area without losing the feel of a naturally growing hedgerow. Amongst all this activity, the Membership Secretary found time to tend to the planted willows and the rest started clearing tall vegetation from the Hide Pond area.

Despite dire weather warnings the work party proceeded as planned, with only one significant shower as we were about to leave the site. As a result all of the ‘hay’ meadow and the paths were successfully cleared of cuttings. Due to the previous day’s rain this proved to be quite heavy work and occupied the five attendees for most of the morning, with only a short period of time left for a brief search for wildlife (reported separately). The hoped for bonfire has been left for another occasion.

A few days before this month’s work party the first of this year’s cuts of the little ‘hay meadow’ will be made. Therefore the main task will be raking up the cuttings, along with any on the paths, and barrowing them to the ‘trench’. Also, we need to have an unseasonal bonfire as quite a lot of woody material has accumulated in the fire-pit. It neither of these tasks appeal there is a hedge which needs trimming back from the path. As usual there should be time to study the wildlife, butterflies being particularly numerous at the current time.

To help at the work party, meet at the reserve on Saturday, 20th August at 9:30 am. We will finish around lunchtime. All members are welcome and no previous experience is necessary. Please wear appropriate work clothes, stout shoes, boots or wellies, and gardening gloves or equivalent. Most tools are available on-site but bring along anything you think might help such as a sturdy rake or a pair of loppers. At the time of notification insect repellent was not needed on site even though it was sunny and with little wind, but it might be worth bringing just in case.

Organised work parties take place at the Jim Mart reserve on the morning of the third Saturday in every month, except in December. For further information about the reserve visit the Jim Mart NR pages on the Ogston Bird Club website, or contact Peter Faulkner by email ([email protected]) or on 0784 214 8888 nearer the date.