A lot of work is needed to keep the reserve in top form. Much of Saltholme is wet grassland and the water levels are critical. Water is held back at certain times of the year to give the right conditions for birds to feed and breed. Over the last few weeks (a winter job when birds are not breeding) we have been checking, and repairing, our sluices which are part of a complex system.
Today volunteers Gwen, Brian and Ian were fitting a new sluice near Back Saltholme. First a temporary clay dam was made to alow the water to be pumped out of the sluice then work could start on removing the old boards and putting in new ones. Water levels can therefore be maintained on what is a rather flat place - most of the reserve is less than 5 metres above sea level and we have very low rainfall. And over many years, with draining of land for industry and building of roads, the natural drainage has been significantly altered so we have to actively manage it.
Thanks to Ian for the photo.
Meanwhile the Kingfisher was catching its fish in full view of the cafe.