Call out for nature lovers
by Fran Sendell, Biosphere award winner Perhaps not everyone is aware that South Molton is right in the middle of the North Devon Biosphere, which is a UNESCO site and one of only seven in the whole world! Our patch is specifically selected because of its unique habitats and includes Lundy and its Marine Reserve, the sand dunes and burrows, the coastline, the extraordinary Taw and Torridge estuaries, Exmoor, ancient woodlands and the entire catchment areas of the Taw and Torridge rivers. Since lockdown there’s been a big increase in the number of groups and families who have been out walking, enjoying nature and being outdoors - and I believe we should try to keep this momentum going.
Hedgehogs need help Photo by Barry Edwards
I am certain that many of you are nature lovers, and perhaps some have studied ecology and environment and have much knowledge to share. I am putting out feelers to see how many folk might be interested in having an open meeting, to raise ideas and discuss possibilities; everybody would be welcome (email below). In South Molton we already have the Quince Honey Farm, the wonderful Community Woodland, the Community Garden, the Sheep Fair Field Wildflower Meadow re-wilding scheme, the Save Frog Lane Campaign, South Molton Save Our Swifts and Britain in Bloom which all include elements of providing for nature. Among current ideas are a Hedgehog Highway, more tree planting, extra nest boxes and wild places, dormouse, bat and wildflower surveys, nature talks and outings. Perhaps someone might like to run a Devon Wildlife Trust Watch Group for our young people. The Biosphere Pledge for Nature Officer, Emily Willoughby, would be happy to come and talk to us at our first gathering. Please email me to express an initial interest, so I know whether to go ahead with the idea and book a venue: fransendell@gmail.com
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