Anyone else think a decent hide would be a good thing down in Newport? Maybe on the front by the wall? It would be very handy during the freezing winter, we can watch waders and stay dry. :-)
Didn't they have a grant given to them recently by Newport council to extend the reedbeds? Maybe some of that money could be put towards at least one decent hide?
What you think?
H.
Absolutely H! The reserve has been open for 10 years with no hide and I can't understand why. It would be great especially in winter if you could visit and shelter from the elements whilst watching the wildlife. As I mentioned to Ant, there are platforms down at the saline lagoons too but these are just that - platforms completely open to the wind and rain. Even Magor Marsh down the coast has a hide. I am surprised this matter has not been resolved before. I did hear a year or two ago that there would be hides erected but nothing has materialised.
Dai
Maybe they could organise a couple of fund raising event if money is such a problem.
I have been to Frieston Shore (Lincs) many times, and it has a hide looking over the salt marsh, and it is a tiny in comparison to Newport.
I also visited Frampton Marshes, which is considerably newer than Newport, that has several hides (check out their RSPB Website).
I know that there is the threat of vandalism, but surely that is no different at most of the reserves, and it sounds like there are a number of people wandering there in the evening to keep an eye on things.
I don't know if you have noticed but most of the birds stay a safe distance away from the wattle fences, I am sure with proper hides they would come nearer.
It would make a great experience there even better in my opinion!
Ant
"IT IS SAID THAT LIFE FLASHES BEFORE YOUR EYES BEFORE YOU DIE. THAT IS TRUE, IT'S CALLED LIVING."Death - Terry Pratchett (The Last Continent).