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Annual report for year ended 31 March 2004The meadowThe past year has been eventful. Following the record-breaking floods in February, the summer has been very dry and there has been poor growth of the meadow grass. The hay was cut in late June, and aftermath grazing attempted. Stephen West brought six Dexter cattle down on 12th October, but malicious damage to the electric fencing the same evening allowed them to escape. Luckily none strayed on to the bypass. Three days later, the fence was again damaged, so the cattle were removed after only five days' grazing at a cost to the Trust of £437. This was very disappointing, and sets back the benefits to the meadow that grazing brings. It also puts at risk our annual DEFRA grant. Wildflowers have been abundant along the river banks, but the diversity of flowers in the meadow has been disappointing. A few fritillaries and cowslips have appeared after the earlier planting, but the appearance of a wider range as a result of the flooding has not occurred. Perhaps the meadows upstream are not rich in wildflowers, or we need to be more patient
Wildflower planting projectGetting wildflowers to grow in an established meadow is difficult, as the grass takes over. To discourage this, we plan to plant small areas with Yellow Rattle that acts as a parasite inhibiting grass growth, and then plant a range of wildflowers. The chances of success are not high, but we hope to give it a trial over several years. If successful, we will have a more diverse and attractive meadow, and gain credit for innovation. At the same time we could plant a hedge and wildflowers in gaps in the belt of trees that crosses the meadow. Dr Anne Millar's botany group will be doing regular surveys of plant species. Local volunteers would be welcome to join. Tree managementA number of boughs had come down across the river, and these were removed, partly at our expense and partly with very welcome help from the Environment Agency. Tree surgeons have reduced the crowns of three ash trees and the veteran black poplar by Buck Pool, and pollarded three willows. They have also worked on the oak at the far end of Buck Pool Spinney. The total cost has been £1,620. The chippings from tree surgery were put in 'one-ton' bags (kindly donated by Brian Rogers) and spread by volunteers on muddy footpaths and used to mulch young trees and shrubs. Malicious damageThe trustees like to regard the meadow as a place where people of all ages are welcome for recreation. Unfortunately, the footbridge in Buck Pool Spinney has been repeatedly damaged, and brushwood (left to rot for the benefit of wildlife) has been set on fire, necessitating a call for the Fire Service late at night. Volunteers made good the damage to the footbridge, with materials costing nearly £500.
Gravel extractionThe scheme in the Regional and County plans for extensive gravel extraction around Dorchester could have a serious effect on the water table and the ecology of the meadow, and would be detrimental to the exceptional local landscape and archaeology. Thanks to the efforts of our Chairman and the nine 'Parishes against gravel extraction' (PAGE), the plan has been modified, but could still go ahead. The Regional Assembly did no hydrological survey, nor considered the landscape in their planning. TrusteesSadly, our former and highly valued trustee Leo Hill has died. He had worked tirelessly in the early days, and donated and erected the oak gateposts. A bronze plaque has been put on a gatepost to help us to remember his great contribution. Two trustees, Peter Duffield and Sue Dixon have resigned. Peter was a tower of strength and generosity to the Trust. Sue Dixon's help in planning educational projects on the meadow will be missed. We welcome the new trustees Janice Balch and Michael Brookes who have already contributed much time and skill. FinanceIncome has been steady at £2,981, of which £1,133 was from donations and covenants, £1,003 from fishing permits and £820 from DEFRA. Expenditure was £3,422 and our bank balance is £441 less than last year. We need regular financial support for management, and can get gift aid to add value to donations. Help from voluntersThere have been a number of working parties on the meadow, and the support that the trustees have had from volunteers has been terrific. Their hard work has been matched by their cheerfulness and their willingness to turn out, in all weathers. The futureAs a registered charity, our future is assured and we can plan for the long term. However, we live in very uncertain times, with climate change and short-term political decisions about the countryside. We hope that, with continued support from the public, the Hurst will remain as it has been for twelve centuries -- a green oasis of calm and beauty in a changing world. Suggestions and ideas would be most welcome. Peter Pritchard hon. secretary 7 April 2004 Previous annual reports |
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