PARC
Practical Action on Reserves in Cornwall
I often find myself feeling helpless when I learn of the plight
of the exotic, endangered species and habitats of the tropics; these rarities
seem so far away and inaccessible. But my thoughts soon turn to our nature reserves
in CornwalL They support a wealth of very important wildlife habitats, some of
which are of international significance. In turn, the habitats provide a refuge
for some very rare species, ranging from butterflies to birds, plants to mammals.
Clearly, it is foolish to feel helpless - everyone can play a part in the conservation
of important species and habitats, and we do not have to leave Cornwall to do
so. This programme of projects involves practical action to save the important
habitats and species on our doorstep! Come along - don 't feel helpless!
For all projects, full details of why, what and how are given by the task leader
on the day, plus full tuition on the use of tools and a tour of the site. No experience
is needed, just a bit of enthusiasm. Please do not hesitate to coutact me at the
Trust if you would like further details or to be put on our mailing list for the
PARC leaflet.
Victoria Scott, Reserves Officer
SUNDAYS 16th & 23rd FEBRUARY BRENEY COMMON
The rare and beautiful marsh fritillary butterfly is very selective
about where it lives and breeds. It depends upon devil's bit scabious, the plant
with attractive pale purple flowers occurring in late summer. To promote the growth
of devil's bit scabious we shall be cleaning leggy European gorse from the important
heathland areas. We shall burn the unwanted gors( on a bonfire, so bring potatoes
in foil for the embers.
Meet at the reserve entrance at Lowertown (Grid Ref: SX 054 610). Lifts from Five
Acres a 9.30am or Truro railway station at 9.45am are available.
SUNDAYS 9th & 30th MARCH VENTONGIMPS MOOR
Heathland supporting the rare Dorset heath occurs at Ventongimps
Moor. The heathiand is of international importance, so we are working hard to
maximise its extent at Ventongimps. The glade created last year will be linked
to the open heathland area by means of a wildlife corridor. Also, scrub clearance
to assist the grazing Exmoor ponies will be carried out.
Meet at the reserve entrance in Ventongimps village (Grid Ref: SW 78 1 5 14).
Lifts from Five Acres at 10.00am or Truro railway station at 10.15am are available.
SUNDAY 13th APRIL RED MOOR
Red Moor supports a wide range of rare species including the
small red damselfly, scarce blue-tailed damselfly, royal fern and marsh cinquefoil.
These rarities have differing habitat requirements and the Trust aims to ensure
that the mosaic of wilderness areas here is maintained. Today. some work will
be done in the important heathland areas and on the Wilderness Trail boardwalks.
Meet at the grass triangle at Tredinnick Pits (Grid Ref: SX 077 623). Lifts from
Five Acres at 9.45am or Truro railway station at 10.00am are available.
SUNDAY 11th MAY PENDARVES WOOD
This is a rich and varied nature reserve. Of particular importance
are the sunny butterfly glades which come alive in the summer months. Do come
along to work alongside the regular volunteers on their habitat management and
access projects.
Meet at the reserve entrance gate 2 miles south of Camborne on the B3303 (Grid
Ref: SW 641 377). Lifts from Five Acres at 9.45am or Truro railway station at
10.00am are available
HOW TO VOLUNTEER
Just turn up on site at 10.30am (consult the maps).
A lift from Five Acres or Truro railway station can be provided for most of the
tasks. Please come prepared for the weather - wellies (for safety, those with
steel toe caps are best) and waterproofs are usually essential, and some gardening
gloves if you have them. Don't forget your packed lunch; hot drinks and biscuits
are provided. Further information can be obtained on (01872) 73939.
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