Nature reserve revamp

A £28,000 make-over has made improvements to an Aldercar nature reserve.

As part of Aldercar Flash Nature Reserve’s make-over, a new access track will mean vehicles can get onto the site.

Delicate marsh and swamp habitat at the current entrance has meant that staff from Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, who manage the reserve, have been unable to care properly for the wetland wildlife haven.

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The new track, which have been funded by SITA Trust, means that the reserve can now be restored to its former glory.

Floodplain habitat is very important for all sorts of wildlife, especially wildfowl, but work needs to be done to re-establish and manage the land.

Machinery such as mowers and tractors will now be able to help with this mission, as well as rare breed cattle.

Grazing cows prevent the growth of certain plants and shrubs, assisting with the task of restoring the habitat.

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Erin McDaid, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust’s head of communications, said: “We are delighted that we have finally been able to make big improvements to this great little nature reserve.

“For too long, the wet entrance area has meant we simply haven’t been able to gain proper access, to realise the full potential of the site.

“We are now hoping that Aldercar Flash will start to thrive once more, as one of Nottinghamshire’s true wetland wonders”.

In addition to the new track, Aldercar Flash now has a new pond, as well as improved habitat for birds.

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The funding will allow the charity to begin work to increase the number of shallow water areas on the reserve, which is a vital habitat for wading birds.

New hedges and fences have also been added, to improve the area.

Marek Gordon, CEO and chairman of SITA Trust, added: “We are delighted to have been able to support this project through the Landfill Communities Fund.

“This important source of funding has been available since 1997 and has provided such worthy projects with more than £1.2 billion.”

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SITA Trust can provide funding through the Landfill Communities Fund.

Funding is available for projects that enhance communities and enrich nature.

For more information visit www.sitatrust.org.uk or www.nottinghamshirewildlife.org