Friends of Berrylands Nature Reserve
Renewables & Environment - , England, United Kingdom
Friends of Berrylands Nature Reserve Employees
Friends of Berrylands Nature Reserve Details
Friends of Berrylands Nature Reserve was constituted in September 2018 with one main aim: "To improve Berrylands Nature Reserve for the benefit of both wildlife and the local community"Berrylands Nature Reserve, officially known as Raeburn Open Space Local Nature Reserve, is a 5 hectare site in Kingston-Upon-Thames that was designated a Local Nature Reserve in 1992. The green space sits in the middle of Berrylands, a residential suburban area in Surbiton. Through the middle of the site passes the Tolworth Brook (also know as Surbiton Stream) which joins the Hogsmill River before reaching the River Thames in Kingston.Unfortunately, the nature reserve has been neglected for many years with no woodland or land management apart from grassland being mowed by council contractors. This has resulted in a very poor quality stream, the spread of invasive plant species, residential fly tipping and anti-social behaviour, and ultimately a reduction in biodiversity and community interest or awareness.The good news however is that this is now all changing and since 2017 and a generous grant from Thames Water, members of the community supported by local environmental charities have managed to begin the process of revitalising this amazing green space. Since conservation work began, not only have we already seen an increase in biodiversity including birds, fish and invertebrates like dragonfly, but we have also seen a massive increase in community awareness and involvement. Two free bat walks were organised over the summer with one receiving over 200 attendees and the other close to 150. In addition, there is a regular core group of community conservation volunteers which on weekends includes local families and youth, as well as Duke of Edinburgh students.The group is really excited about the future and what can be achieved in order to benefit both our local wildlife and environment but also our community spirit.Anyone can apply to become a member and the nature reserve is on public land open to all. For more information for now, please visit our Facebook page.
