We will create a pond of approx size 200 square metres. Once it is established there will be access days for supervised pond dipping to look at what is living there, for which a safe surface will be needed.
We have already planted 30 half standard trees and 80 metres of species rich hedgerow. We will also be cultivating areas to seed with wild flowers to encourage insects which in turn attract small birds and bats. We plan to install another of our colourful information boards to explain how we are encouraging biodiversitry and what you, the visitor, can do to help reverse the loss of biodiversity in the wider environment. The pond zone is overlooked from the picnic tables so the view will be more interesting.
Due to heavy use we will be making the picnic area more robust.
What we'll deliver:
- Create a pond of approx size 200 square metres
- Install safe fencing with gate and boardwalk for pond dipping.
- Rotovate parts of the site and sow seeds and plug plants of native wild flowers.
- Create information board about the project and on the theme of reversing the loss of biodiversity
- Turf reinforcing and improvements to picnic table area
Why it's a great idea:
The benefit to everyone is that this project will add to the interest of a visit to Jo Cox Community Wood, especially as it will be visible from nearby higher ground and from the picnic tables.
As most people are also concerned to see wildlife prosper the project should be pleasing to them as a wider range of habitats will be created, providing for the needs of a wider range of mammals, insects, birds and reptiles.
Thirdly the project adds to the educational value of a visit to Jo Cox Community Wood, especially for managed parties of children. There already is an outdoor classroom and the existence of the pond and diverse planting will add to the teaching benefit which can be extracted from the location, especially when pond dipping is possible. Alongside this role will be the information board explaining the necessity for us to stop the decline in wildlife and instead create circumstances in which wildlife can thrive.
Steps to get it done:
- Remove topsoil to create a hollow and spread the topsoil on adjacent land.
- Install liner and fill with depression with water
- Add plants to the pond
- Construct secure fence around the pond zone
- Construct path into the pond zone and platform for pond dipping
- Rotovate various areas and sow with wildflower seeds
- Create information board
- Strengthen area around picnic tables e.g with turf reinforcing
