Led by Steve and Kathy Bushell (from Broadhead Farm)
Background There are 2 fen systems (base rich springs) emanating from Corallian limestone within Broadhead Farm. Such fen systems are nationally rare, found only in Norfolk, Oxfordshire, Anglesey and North York Moors. These types of fen support rich fen flora and distinctive insect fauna. A cranefly Limonia occidua (commonly found in Scotland) has been recorded here – one of the very few English locations for this species.
The farm is run on low input principles meaning no artificial fertiliser, minimal organic manure put on pasture. The two fens are farmed under Higher Level Stewardship with no inputs at all. Interesting plants include Marsh Helloborine Orchid, Butterwort etc.
This field trip should be of particular interest to botanists, invertebrate specialists and birders.
Park at Cockmoor Hall car park (SE915868) then follow road north west down hill, continuing west when road bends north. Meet at double gates at bottom of hill (SE909875) at 6 p.m. Wear waterproof footwear.
Led by Chris Bradshaw
Details TBA.
This is a private site not accessible by the public. The recent creation of a number of wetland scrapes makes this site of particular interest for its birdlife, as well as its flowers and insects.
January 17th. (Saturday) – Afternoon Trip to Nunburnholme for Red Kite Roost.
Leader: Ian Glaves. We will need to be at the site from 2-30pm onwards, until dusk. Details about transport at meeting on 13th.
Details TBA
June 6th . (Saturday) – Visit to Castlebeck Woods, Lownorth & Jugger Howe Becks.
Meet at 10am at Chapel Farm on the Helwath Road which runs due North from Harwood Dale and passes the Mill Inn.
Park on the grass verge where it is safe to do so.
5 mile round trip maximum lasting approximately 4 to 5 hours (finish 2 to 3pm).
Stout shoes/boots recommended as some uneven ground and slopes.
On Tuesday evening, 23rd June, we will walk half a mile up the lane to the path into the top of the dale, then wander down the bottom of the dale listening to birds and looking for flowers, etc. This should take about 1 1/2 hours. At the bottom of the dale we will enter private land (the owners will join us) for wild flowers and possible dragonflies if any are about on the pond. The cold weather has delayed May flowers. The owners haven’t been down the dale at dusk for some years, so don’t know if the glow-worms are still there. As it’s just past the longest day, we may not want to stay long enough for it to get dusk, but we can always return at a more suitable time.
Parking: Sawdon Village Hall (north of village) SE939853 – there is plenty of parking space
Time: Meet 6:30pm
Conditions/Terrain: Field trips are never rushed but always take extra care when walking ‘off path’.
Please come equipped for a walk in the countryside and bring waterproof clothing.
Young people under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and children should be kept under close control. Dogs are not permitted.
Ticks (tiny spider-like creatures) are found all over Britain in especially in woods. They are much more likely to attach themselves to you when walking ‘off path’ or through vegetation such as bracken and can give you Lyme disease. You are best protected by wearing long trousers tucked in and rubbing insect repellent at easily accessed areas like the ankles and waist. Check yourself for these usually pin head sized creatures after visiting local woods if you have been off path.
Leader: Ian Glaves