Abel Heath Bracken Trampling (11 May 2011)

Oak sapling

Trampling

Trampling

 

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Trampling

Trampling

Braken break

 

 

 

On a gloriously sunny afternoon seven Society members descended on Abel Heath Farm clad in boots ready to do battle with armies of new bracken shoots. Before setting out they were introduced to the restoration of the 1905 paraffin primed water pump that once provided the water supply to Blickling Hall from the Bure at Johns Water. The skill and dedication of the group of volunteers is commendable.

The group made its haphazard way along the north-western boundary to the far end of the Heath where the bracken is contained within a rabbit-infested sand pit. They pretty much annihilated any sign of expansion before crossing the road to the south-western corner where further additions to the April litter collection were made. This included a discarded vacuum cleaner extension pipe and numerous drink cans. On a more positive note a small heath butterfly was spotted and the purring of a turtle dove. It was hoped that his calls were to be reciprocated. Notably a garden warbler was heard and interesting to contrast with a nearby blackcap.

The group then lurched into the more demanding Area B where the confusion of footpaths, copses and old sand pits makes orderly annihilation almost impossible. However they did a valiant job and, after two hours of assault, finally returned to the Farm leaving fragments of outlier bracken to be tackled by individuals on their various visits to the Heath. As one trampler said:

"My trousers are ruined, my socks are full of gorse thorn but what a lovely afternoon."

Roll on June/July when the now appearing willow herb will be ready for culling!