Each year, Devon Birds’ volunteers cut part of the reed bed in South Milton Ley to regenerate growth. This year we are planning two cuts either side of the boardwalk, about halfway between the sewage works and the coast path. The first cut will be on Sunday 19 January starting at 9.30am and the second on Sunday, 2 February, also starting at 9.30am.
Our mechanical reed cutter greatly reduces the work of the volunteers but there is still plenty to be done by hand, gathering and burning the reeds. This year we hope to have a second mechanical cutter running so there will be more work than in previous years. There is a friendly atmosphere and an enjoyable few hours of physical work! We usually finish around lunchtime.
Bring wellies and gloves, wear warm old clothes and if you have long-handled bagging hooks and/or rakes please bring them along as well. Please bring your own refreshments. We meet by the sewage works but if you are a bit late, the smoke will give away where we are working. Please park in the field at the beginning of the cul-de-sac leading down to the sewage works.
If you are interested in helping with the reed cut, please contact Vic Tucker (01752 216887) or Nick Townsend (01548 560243 or email gillnickt@yahoo.co.uk ).
I will check conditions a few days before each cut to confirm it is going ahead and send around an email and put notices on Devon Birds and Thurlestone Bay Birds websites.
