Freshwater Wildlife Group

At the February committee meeting, the possibility of starting up a wildlife group was discussed. This has gone ahead, with the following aims and objectives:

AIMS
- To foster awareness of the wildlife of Freshwater
- To create a database of diversity and habitats
- To create a database of local experts.
OBJECTIVES
- Map the area, showing the location and diversity of habitats
- Identify species in the area
- Identify areas possible for enhancement as habitats
- Increase awareness of the importance of gardens as wildlife habitats
- Provide information on how gardens can be made wildlife-friendly
- Identify residents with expertise
- Create displays informing residents of biodiversity and habitats, encouraging local population to be involved with the work of the group.

Two activities have been identified as starters for the group:

PHOTOGRAPHIC DISPLAY
- The library has been booked for September 2010 for a display of photographs taken by members, which will be annotated. So, any photographs you have that you would like to be included, please attach to an email using the "Contact Us" page or email for instructions. We would like habitats, plants, animals and fungi – just in case we are unable to identify species, please write what they are on the back.
COMMUNITY WILDLIFE GARDEN
- We are hoping to create a garden with the local community, where wildlife will be safe and people can go to find a peaceful space. We are discussing the use of Granny's Meade, Bedbury Lane with Freshwater Parish Council, a meeting in the Council Chamber will be held on the 20th April at 7:30pm. If we get approval we will be able to make a garden plan and sort out and allocate work. Please submit your ideas – all will be considered.
Other, more long term plans include:
- Mapping the area with reference to species and habitats
- Creating information boards of garden wildlife and ”wild” wildlife
- Creating a flower meadow
- Organising 4 walks a year, both for pleasure and sharing information.

The most important thing, as with all projects, is manpower, so if anyone would like to be involved, either in the sub-committee to help with the organisation or with any aspects of the projects, please let us know. You can contact us by clicking .