Ouse Burn Way: Balsam Bashing and Wildflower Survey
About this Event
About this event
Join us for a morning of conservation and wildflower surveying at Woolsington Parish Ponds!
We'll begin by searching for and removing Himalayan Balsam. This fast growing plant is invasive and can quickly outcompete native wildflowers and accelerate soil erosion, so removing it helps protect the rich biodiversity of the site.
Once we've tackled the balsam, we'll explore the ponds and surrounding grassland to identify and record wildflowers, paying particular attention to species that are indicators of healthy, species-rich habitats. Whether you're new to plant identification or already a botany boffin, there'll be something for everyone to get involved with.
This session will be informal, educational, and lots of fun. You’ll learn about invasive non native species and pick up some habitat management skills along the way. We'll also be contributing valuable records that can help inform future conservation work at the ponds.
Please wear clothing you don't mind getting dirty and sturdy boots. Please also bring work gloves if you have them although some will be provided.
Whether you’re a regular volunteer or simply curious about conservation, everyone is welcome. We hope to see you there! ?
Essential Information
Event lead: Ellie Davison
Event length: 1 session, Saturday 18 July, 10.00 am -12.00 pm (approx)
Meet at: Woolsington Parish Pond (Lily Pond), Woolsington, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NZ 19165 69726, W3W: ///riots.fishery.runner.
Please plan your route beforehand as there is no on site parking. Map with meeting point and details for nearby parking included below.
Photos will be taken at this event to use on social media and in NHSN publicity material. If you would prefer not to be photographed please let us know at the start of the event.
Accessibility
Toilet facilities are not available and there is no cafe on site.
The walk is approximately 1.5 miles along a trail. Please wear sturdy footwear as some of the paths can be uneven in places and can get muddy in places. This site is not generally regarded as wheelchair accessible.
Please email Ellie at [email protected] for any accessibility questions.
About the Ouse Burn Way
Made possible by the Reece Foundation, The Ouse Burn Way offers events that encourage people of all ages to connect with nature. From exploring local wildlife to discovering the hidden gems in your community, these activities are a great way to experience the natural world in Newcastle and North Tyneside. What will you spot in your own neighbourhood? Come along and join us for some outdoor fun, and start noticing the wildlife around you. For more information about the project, please click here.
How to get there
Map to show how to get to meeting point (red x) below. Best options for parking are Cowell's Garden Centre (B on map, w3w//hops.agreed.neck) or layby on A696 (D on map, w3w//engage.pages.rival - please note this layby has limited parking).
Please leave extra time!
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 0.00
