Ranger Study Day - Eelmoor Marsh and Blandford Woods
About this Event
The visit offers a chance to explore two nearby conservation sites. First is Eelmoor Marsh, a usually closed heathland reserve by Farnborough Airport, managed by Marwell Wildlife for over 30 years. Key features include conservation grazing by endangered Przewalski’s horses and highland cattle and hundreds of heathland species including the reintroduction of marsh clubmoss and sand lizards.
The afternoon focuses on Blandford Woods, a former MOD woodland now managed as a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace by Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership on behalf of The Land Trust. It supports a thriving population of the critically endangered green hound’s tongue plant, with ongoing conservation efforts led by the Species Recovery Trust. It is also an opportunity to learn more about what the Species Recovery Trust are doing nationally and globally.
Images: Top image Higland Cattle ©️Paul Drane, below Green Hounds Tongue
We will be led by knowledgeable staff and have time for discussion around heathland habitat restoration, species reintroduction and expansion programmes whilst networking with colleagues in the conservation and community engagement sector.
The visit will require a significant amount of walking on informal footpaths and uneven ground. Please bring suitable footwear and clothing to be outside all day in all weathers as well as drinks and snacks as we will be away from the cars. ESSENTIAL: Please bring photo ID if anyone has non-UK ID please let us know to assist in securing correct access passes.
What you may see throughout the day:
o Critically endangered Przewalski’s horses
o Highland cattle
o Critically endangered Green hounds tongue in a woodland habitat.
o A SSSI lowland heath and bog that supports more than 250 species of flowering plants & grasses – including reintroduced marsh club moss.
Timetable
10:30-11:00am Meet at Cody Technology Park main reception. Sign in. Please bring photo ID.
Toilets, refreshments & registration. Please bring a travel mug!
11-11:30 Overview & Introduction to the Eelmoor Marsh project by Marwell Wildlife
11:30 - 13:15 Guided walking tour of Eelmoor Marsh
13:15 – 14:00 Lunch – restaurant on site to buy or bring a packed lunch
14:15 – 15:30 Guided walking tour of Blandford Woods by The Species Recovery TrustThis event is kindly organised by the The Land Trust with Marwell Wildlife and The Species Recovery Trust, working in partnership with the Countryside Management Association.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 0.00 to GBP 44.04
