The first volunteer work party of 2012 was very well attended with 17 volunteers turning out on a rather pleasant day.

On the walk up to the containers, we were treated to views of two drake goldeneye and a kingfisher on Silt Lagoon 1.  Graham Usher then spotted the first of four skeins of pink-footed geese passing high over the reserve. 

The group split into three teams, tackling willow planting (in front of the containers), reed pannicle harvesting (in silt Lagoon 6) and reed plug planting on the site formerly known as Silt Lagoon 7.

As the plug planters made their way back in for lunch, they were lucky enough to see a merlin hunting over Phase 2.

After lunch we made a concerted effort to finish the willow planting together, followed by the spreading of the pannicles and more plug planting.

Thank you to everyone who attended for what was a very productive and enjoyable day.

Volunteers spreading reed pannicles on the new landscaping.