A good turnout of regulars and wheelbarrows ensured that all the key tasks were completed in good time. The advertised “monster bonfire” was more of a controlled slow-burn due to some overnight dampness, but it achieved what was asked of it in the end. There was even time for a leisurely walk around the site, during which many insects were photographed for inclusion in a separate sightings post.
Many thanks to everyone who came to help.

If you need a respite from all the work parties at Ogston Reservoir, or perhaps want to help out but can only come at the weekend, then please consider joining the next work party at the Jim Mart Nature Reserve. Saturday’s weather forecast is, at the time of writing, for light cloud and a moderate breeze. Some areas of old Rosebay Willowherb and nettle, along with a section of better quality grassland, have just been cut so the main task is to remove the arisings. If enough members turn out then the work will be relatively light going, and there is the possibility of having a monster bonfire. If that is not enough to tempt you, then you might also miss the opportunity to record the second ever sighting of a Dipper at the reserve, first seen flying up and down the brook on Sunday morning.

To help out at the work party, meet at the reserve on Saturday, 17th October, 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 (nettle-proof) gardening gloves or equivalent. Bring a sturdy garden rake or pitchfork, and even a wheelbarrow, if you can.

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 visit the Jim Mart NR pages on the Ogston Bird Club website https://ogstonbirdclub.co.uk/ , or contact Peter Faulkner by email ([email protected]) or by telephone (0784 214 8888).