Essex nature reserve scoops special status
Essex nature reserve scoops special status
Essex nature reserve Foxearth Meadows – owned and run by Christian charity A Rocha UK – has scooped special status as one of the region’s best areas for wildlife.
Recently praised as ‘a tranquil haven’, the 11-acre reserve has been designated as a Local Wildlife Site (LoWS). Cycle racks have just been installed, too, to encourage more bike riders to visit.
‘The designation is recognition of the significant conservation interest Foxearth Meadows holds – and acknowledges that the site is of county significance,’ said Local Wildlife Sites Officer for Essex Wildlife Trust John More.
‘The selection of LoWS is based on the most important, distinctive and threatened species and habitats within a national, regional and local context. This makes them some of our most valuable wildlife areas.’
It was John More who described Foxearth Meadows as ‘a tranquil haven for wildlife and people’ as he congratulated A Rocha UK for attaining this special status. ‘In simple terms, Foxearth Meadows is a great site,’ he said.
Welcoming John More’s observations, Foxearth Meadows Reserve Manager Mark Prina said the status is a ‘stepping stone’ to becoming a site of special scientific interest. Then Foxearth Meadows would be protected by law to conserve its wildlife.
‘Much of the LoWS recognition is focused on the dragonfly aspect,’ said Mark Prina. ‘We’ve recorded 22 species on the site. That’s phenomenal!’ Mark hopes the new status and cycle racks will draw more visitors.
‘We also want to promote sustainable forms of transport,’ he explained. ‘We hope our cycle racks will encourage those who are able to leave the car at home.’
More than 300 people celebrated the opening of Foxearth Meadows in spring 2017. The reserve has featured on BBC TV’s Countryfile programme. A Rocha UK is a Christian charity doing practical nature conservation and education with local communities and motivating others to care for the environment.
For more information, contact Mark Prina on 07548 209652 – Photo: Pond at Foxearth Meadows
