Bexley Wildlife’s calendar is a bit short on weekend habitat management volunteering opportunities in November and December at present, with the exception of the Lesnes Abbey Conservation Volunteers team which is active in the north of the Borough. Anyone in the far south may therefore be interesting in helping at Ruxley Gravel Pits, just over the border in Bromley.
Situated on the outskirts of London, near Sidcup, this 11-hectare wetland oasis, sits alongside industry, housing and roads. The site comprises once-quarried flooded lakes, islands, and marginal swamps which are home to a large number of species of plants, birds and it is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) largely for its exceptional invertebrate fauna:
http://www.sssi.naturalengland.org.uk/citation/citation_photo/1003658.pdf
Access to the site is restricted.
The site is managed by a small team of hard working volunteers who work on the site mainly over the winter period once a month. Without their input, Ruxley Gravel Pits would become overgrown in ways that would reduce its quality. But they need more help. The group are looking for more volunteers to assist with looking after this special site.
Tasks often involve cutting back buddleia and other scrub, felling small trees and other activities. All tools and training are provided and the days usually run on the second Sunday of the month from 10.30am – 2.30pm.
If you live nearby, why not come along and join the group. For more details call either Albert Watson, Honorary Warden on 07831 161208 or Linda & Martin 01322 528570 or Mob: 07814 795805.
