John Walker presented with MBE
On Thursday 4 June, John Walker was presented with the MBE for his outstanding contribution to wildlife conservation in Lincolnshire by Mr Tony Worth, the Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire.
John Walker is the Manager of Saltfleetby-Theddlethorpe Dunes National Nature Reserve on the Lincolnshire coast. He began working there in 1979 and has devoted his career to the site. He has been responsible for increasing access for public enjoyment whilst maintaining the reserve's wilderness feel. During this 30 year period, over 10 million people have visited the reserve.
With an extensive knowledge of wildlife in Lincolnshire, his voluntary work for the Wildlife Trust has been extremely valuable. John has shared his enthusiasm and expertise, amongst other things helping the Trust to buy land adjacent to Saltfleetby-Theddlethorpe Dunes to act as a buffer zone.
June 2009
Turning the tide on the future of the Marine Bill
The future of the UK’s impressive marine wildlife, including bottle-nosed dolphins, seahorses and corals, will remain under threat if forthcoming legislation isn’t strengthened.
On Wednesday 13 May, six representatives from the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust joined delegates from four organisations at Westminster to lobby for increased protection for marine wildlife within the Marine and Coastal Access Bill currently going through Parliament.
In response to the threat from human activities - including development - The Wildlife Trusts, RSPB, the Marine Conservation Society and WWF have been calling for comprehensive legislation to protect our marine environment for nearly a decade. The Marine and Coastal Access Bill should provide a salvation for marine wildlife: yet serious weaknesses remain. The current draft contains no guarantees that the most important areas for marine wildlife will be adequately protected. With the Bill about to enter the final phase of Parliamentary debates before it passes into law later this year, the coalition of conservation groups recognise this is the last chance to effect the necessary changes to strengthen its ability to protect the marine environment.
The groups are seeking three key changes to the legislation:
- The inclusion of a clear duty to designate Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs) for the protection of the full range of marine wildlife or habitats.
- Amendment of the Bill to ensure that individual MCZs contribute to an ecologically coherent network of marine protected areas, which must also include some “highly protected” sites.
- The removal of the clause that states socio-economic factors (such as fishing) can be taken into account when deciding whether or not to designate an MCZ.
Joan Edwards, head of marine policy for The Wildlife Trusts, commented: "The Wildlife Trusts have campaigned for more than a decade for new laws to protect the UK’s amazing marine life. At long last, the Marine and Coastal Access Bill is passing through Parliament - but the Bill needs to be much stronger if it is really going to make a difference for our seas and sea life. It is literally “make or break” time. With this Bill we have a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity. If our campaign succeeds, we will get the Bill we so urgently need and our seas will be protected and start to recover their health. If we fail, the state of our seas will continue on its downward spiral. We need to ensure that the Bill delivers effective protection for the marine environment."
> Read the full press release: Four NGOs, One Aim: Save our Seas
May 2009
Re-creating the wild fen
The Trust is delighted to be able to report that funding has been secured for the purchase of 283 acres at Willow Tree Farm in the south of the county. Thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund, Natural England, Environment Agency and the Lincolnshire Waterways Partnership we are able to embark on an ambitious scheme to recreate wild fen habitat.
Willow Tree Farm, a former fenland washland, is linked to our two existing fenland nature reserves by the River Glen and the wildlife-rich Counter Drain. This is an exceptional opportunity to increase Lincolnshire's remaining fenlands by 200%. Watch this space for more news about this exciting scheme…
> Find out more about the Lincolnshire Fens
> Visit the South Lincolnshire Fenlands website (opens in new browser window)
April 2009
Lincolnshire coastal landscape to benefit
The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) has awarded an earmarked first-round pass to the Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marshes as part of its Landscape Partnership (LP) programme. The grant of £904,500, including £47,100 development funding, will form part of a £1.7million project to help safeguard the unique natural and historic heritage of the coastal plain.
The Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marshes Project has been developed by a partnership which brings together interested parties from local authorities and agriculture, environment, conservation and heritage sector bodies. Practical and financial support will be available for local farmers in the conservation and management of grassland and livestock through a capital grant scheme and training programme; there will be opportunities, through a programme of activities, for local people and visitors to learn about the history, traditions and wildlife of this forgotten part of Lincolnshire; people will be encouraged to interpret the local landscape and celebrate local legends, customs and myths through art, creative writing and performance; and a series of nature and heritage trails, themed cycle routes and new horse-riding trails will allow people to explore the area and appreciate its unique charm and beauty.
Lincolnshire County Council will be the lead partner in the next stage; to develop these themes further and produce detailed proposals and project plans. Involvement of local communities will be essential in this process to make sure that the project incorporates people’s ideas about what is special and distinctive about the local landscape and its history.
> Visit the Coastal Grazing Marshes website (opens in new browser window)
April 2009
Extension to Moor Closes
Thanks to support from Natural England’s Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund, we have been able to purchase a 10 hectare extension to Moor Closes nature reserve at Ancaster. This new field provides a link between the two Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) of the cemetery and the reserve. Hopefully, over time, the field will develop the flora of the adjacent sites including the rare tall stemmed thrift.
April 2009
Have your say on the coastal country park
The proposed Coastal Country Park covers an area between Sandilands and Chapel St. Leonards of approximately eight kilometres of coastline and up to 35 square kilometres of coastal hinterland. Among potential developments are a visitor or heritage centre, networked observatories, interpretation points and improved parking and recreational facilities.
An initial consultation took place in 2008, with over 400 people completing and returning the questionnaire. A Consultation Document has now been produced and the consultation period will initially, be open, from 30th March to 18th May 2009. To make sure your views are included go to http://microsites.lincolnshire.gov.uk/Countryside/section.asp?catId=15881 where the consultation document and further information can be downloaded.
April 2009
Open Days at Vine House Farm, Deeping St Nicholas
A great chance have a look at this conservation award winning farm with organic farming, farm wildlife, wind turbines and bird food growing. Anyone is welcome, walks last for about two hours, are based on one of our farm tractors and trailers and followed by a BBQ of local produce. Booking is required and the walk costs £9 per person.
Farm walk dates for this year are:
Saturday 13th June at 10am
Saturday 4th July at 10am
More information can be found on the Vine House Farm website.
April 2009
Tree planting dedication at Ashing Lane
Planting as begun at Monks Wood: the new woodland part of Ashing Lane nature reserve near Dunholme. The wood is named in memory of Dennis Monks who served as Chairman on the Lincolnshire Panel of WREN for 10 years. At the end of February, Mrs Joy Monk planted a memorial tree and officially named the woodland.
Local school children from the gardening club at Dunholme Primary School joined in and planted trees that in future years they will be able to bring their own children and grandchildren to see.
The Wildlife Trust is extremely grateful to Waste Recycling Environmental Ltd (WREN), whose generous support has enabled the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust and Nettleham Woodland Trust to create this new nature reserve.
> Read the press release for more information
February 2009
Enjoy a relaxing weekend away from it all
The Wash Study Centre at Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve is offering a unique opportunity to enjoy a wonderful weekend in the tranquil surroundings of Lincolnshire's wildest landscapes.
The Wash Study Centre is a residential field centre situated right in the heart of the nature reserve (just behind the visitor centre). Previously the centre has only been open to groups but this year, it is being opened for individuals, couples and families to stay.
The following weekends are available at a cost of £45.00 per person, per night.
- Friday 28 - Monday 31 August (August bank holiday)
- Friday 2 - Sunday 4 October (ideal for autumn migration)
Accommodation is offered on a full board basis and includes a full English breakfast, a packed lunch, and a full home-cooked dinner. The centre prides itself on its healthy, home-cooked food, using local and fair-trade products where possible. Other facilities include an extensive library, sun lounge, large garden and computer suite. Rooms include single, twin and family rooms and are basic but comfortable. Prices are per person per night, reductions are available for accompanying children. Places are offered on a first come first served basis.
For more information or to book your place please call the centre on 01754 898057 - option 1 or email educationatgib@aol.com
January 2009
Learning for adults
We have a fantastic programme of day and weekend courses planned this year. Highlights include: a nature photography course with award winning photographer Paul Hobson, basket making and the inside story of plant plumbing and sex!
Pastel Drawing
Sunday 29 March at Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve. 10am - 4pm
Capture the beauty of Gibraltar Point using a variety of pastel techniques.
£30 per person. Advance booking is essential call 01754 898057.
Spring Tonics
Sunday 5 April at Far Ings National Nature Reserve. 11am - 3pm
A short introduction and walk followed by demonstrations of herbal tinctures, tonics and teas. Make your own tonic so you’re vibrant for the spring!
£15 per person. Advance booking is essential call 01652 637055.
Basket Making
Saturday 18 April at Whisby Nature Park. 10am - 4pm
Discover the art of basket making and make a basket to take home.
£30 per person. Advance booking is essential call 01522 696926.
Birdwatching in and around Bourne
Saturday 25 April in Bourne. 8am - 3pm
Join Tony Bates on a day of birdwatching in the Bourne area.
£30 per person. Advance booking is essential contact Hazel Williams on 01778 560417. Organised by the Bourne Area Group.
Loose Atmospheric Watercolour Techniques
Saturday 25 April at Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve. 10am - 4pm
Loose watercolour technique and subtle colour mixes to capture the atmosphere of Gibraltar Point.
£25 per person. Advance booking is essential call 01754 898057.
The Inside Story of Plant Plumbing and Sex
Thursday 7 May at Well Cottage, Little Bytham. 7pm - 9pm
A practical hands-on microscopic tour of plants
£10 per person. Advance booking before 30 April is essential contact Hazel Williams on 01778 560417. Organised by the Bourne Area Group.
Woodland Plant Identification Workshop
Sunday 10 May in the Bourne area. 10am - 3pm
With Dr Richard Jefferson
£8. Advance booking is essential contact Hazel Williams on 01778 560417. Organised by the Bourne Area Group.
Art Workshop
Saturday 16 May at Far Ings National Nature Reserve. 10am - 4pm
Improve your art skills and look at ways of working with mixed media to create a colourful & atmospheric portfolio.
£25 per person. Advance booking is essential call 01652 637055.
Nature Photography Course
Friday 5 June – Sunday 7 June at Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve.
Join award winning photographer Paul Hobson for a weekend dedicated to nature photography.
Weekend course £140 including full board accommodation. Advance booking is essential call 01754 898057.
Insect Identification Workshop
Saturday 13 June at Thurlby Fen nature reserve. 10am - 3pm
£8 per person. Advance booking is essential contact Hazel Williams on 01778 560417. Organised by the Bourne Area Group.
Plants in Focus
Sunday 21 June at Well Cottage, Little Bytham. Two sessions: 9.30am – 12.30pm and 2pm – 5pm
This practical workshop will show you a variety of ways to take pictures of plants, flowers, foliage details and their associations with other wildlife.
£15 per person. Advance booking before 14 June is essential contact Hazel Williams on 01778 560417. Organised by the Bourne Area Group.
Limestone Grassland Flowers Identification Workshop
Sunday 28 June at Barnack Hills and Holes National Nature Reserve. 10am – 3pm
£8 per person. Advance booking is essential contact Hazel Williams on 01778 560417. Organised by the Bourne Area Group.
February 2009
Car Parking Season Tickets
A combined car parking season ticket for Gibraltar Point and Snipe Dales is available for £7.50 for 12 months.
The season ticket is available at the Snipe Dales Office, Gibraltar Point Visitor Centre or by post from:
Banovallum House, Manor House Street, Horncastle LN9 5HF
Please make cheques payable to Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust.
Mark your envelope CPST and enclose a stamped addressed envelope.
February 2007
