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Grassland and grazing
Work is underway to restore rare plants, flowers and encourage new growth on part of the Benfleet and Southend marshes at Hadleigh Country Park.
This area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and was once a well-established grassland. During the last 25 years almost two million acres of grassland in the UK have been lost. The removal of scrub is part of a management plan agreed with Natural England, the government’s statuary body responsible for natural green infrastructure.
Starting this year, the team at Marsh Farm Country Park are introducing grazing with rare breed sheep, Hampshire Downs, the first 10 ewes arrived at the site in January.
By using rare, native breeds, such as Hampshire Downs, the country parks team are helping to ensure the conservation of the genetic diversity of the breed and prevent its extinction.
New at Essex Outdoors for kids and families
Essex Outdoors are developing their offer for kids and families across their centres.
At Harlow discover the pay and play High Ropes Hexagon (more on page 38) as well as firm favourites, Paddle Club and Stand-up Paddle Board taster sessions, not forgetting the Monday night Multi-Activity Club.
At Bradwell-on-Sea discover Powerboat courses and Sailing Experience Days – read more on pages 34 and 35 and discover how to enter the prize draw to win a sailing day worth £190.
