Beavers discover minibeasting
in the Green Corridor
1st Great Chart Beavers learnt about a
variety of creatures found in the River Great Stour led by the Ashford
Green Corridor project at the start of their programme of summer field
trips. The River Great Stour flows thorough Buxford Meadow, which is a
Site of Nature Conservation Interest and is within walking distance of the
group’s headquarters. The children armed with nets, trays and
identification sheets were ably equipped to discover a variety of insects
and fish in the water. The children were excited to discover Bullhead fish
and Sticklebacks as well as insects ranging from mayfly larvae to water
scorpions. Parents from the group also joined in and were soon experts at
identifying the creatures that the children had caught.
Mayfly larvae and freshwater shrimps are indicators of
good water quality and their presence throughout this stretch of the river
shows that conditions have improved over the years. Rosemary Hoare,
Ashford Green Corridor Officer said "the children were very
enthusiastic and learnt a lot about their local environment".
Rosemary added " there have been some problems at Buxford Meadow
recently with large trenches being dug into the riverbank causing some
flooding in the woodland. It would be useful if the public can report
these problems to us if they occur again over the summer so we can take
action". The Green Corridor project offers opportunities for local
groups to be involved in local sites within the town and designated parts
of the River Great Stour as a Local Nature Reserve in 2002. Any groups
wishing to do a walk, event or activity based around wildlife should
contact Rosemary Hoare, Ashford Green Corridor Officer on 01233 813 307.
