Conservation day at Winnall

Volunteers from across Hampshire came together last weekend to help maintain Winnall Moor's reserve in Winchester for visitors and wildlife alike.

The aim of the day was to protect the site's indigenous trees and animals from invasive non-native plants that inhibit British species growth.

The day started with chopping down Japanese Knotweed and any brambles that got in our way. We then moved onto the giant Buddleia that overshadowed the river and managed to hack most of it down with our saws and loppers before the day was over!

The best part of the day for some was the building and lighting of the bonfire that was used to burn all of the logs and branches we had cut down.

By the end of the day we had cleared a huge area that opened up the path, making the site more appealing for visitors and also to encourage wildlife such as Red Kites, Chaffinches, Long Tailed Tits and hundreds of species of insects to make Winnall Moor their home.

We will be going back to Winnall Moor in the February half term to continue with clearing and burning, and maybe even some survey work to see what species are living on the site. If you are interested in joining us on this day, please get in touch.

Solent Youth Action runs activities like this throughout the year. If this sounds like something you'd like to be involved with next time, please get in touch!