fbpx Skip to main content

On the ground in April 2017



On the ground in April 2017

May 2, 2017

  • Work to maintain the South Downs Way National Trail included replacing way markers and, installing gates along the route, as well as repairing a water tap at Amberley.
  • Tested a new route for walkers, horse riders and cyclists to publish on ViewRanger by completing a 7 mile stretch from Fittleworth, taking in heath woodland farmland and ponds.
  • Rangers worked with volunteers to improve access for visitors by installing hunt gates at Beddingham and the Long Man of Wilmington and replacing a stile at Kingston.
  • A student from Sparsholt College began a three week work experience placement with our Ranger team in the Wealden Heaths area.
  • Rangers led volunteers to carry out fence repairs on Welches and Chapel Commons including new gate posts and rehanging gates.
  • 9 Barn Owl boxes and 6 Little Owl boxes constructed by the Volunteer Ranger Service (VRS) for a new project and for replacement and refurbishment in Selborne area.
  • Restored chalk grassland on a SSSI/SINC with the VRS on a valley adjoining Butser Hill.
  • Otter activity noted on our wildlife cameras on the River Rother near where the VRS installed an otter holt.
  • Other sightings include- 2 Ring Ouzels seen at Stephen Castle Downs while on a task with the volunteers.
  • Attended celebration for new Hants & IOW Wildlife Trust reserve, Hockley Meadow
  • Rangers met landowners on the River Meon to discuss recommendations from the completed habitat suitability survey, so theycan enhance and improve their section of river.
  • Invasive scrub and rhododendron at Ambersham Common was cut back by a task force of volunteers including the South Downs National Park Authority Chief Executive Trevor Beattie plus guest Adam Phillips from the Youth Mosaic Project (pictured).
  • 25 people attended a Ranger led Heart Smart walk
  • A pearl bordered fritillary caterpillar was discovered at Rewel Wood in West Sussex proving that recent coppicing to support the butterfly in this area is working.
  • Attended the seasonal opening of the Visitor and Countryside Centre at Beachy Head.
  • Neil Hulme from Butterfly Conservation took volunteers on a guided walk around Tottington Wood to see the effects from the coppicing they have completed over the last couple of years.
  • Asuccessful ‘Cash In Trash Out’ event was held at Cuckmere Haven.