Uppermill Community Action Network (UCAN) activity centred on vegetation management and clearance of the surrounding area.

Uppermill Community Action Network

Uppermill Community Action (UCAN) activity this month centred largely on vegetation management and clearance alongside the canal, towpath and immediate surrounding areas which has a rich variety of plants and greenery. UCAN always ensure their work is mindful and respectful of this precious environment which is an area in which people really value and enjoy continuing to protect it for the local wildlife to thrive.

An essential part of their work on managing and clearing vegetation is to place the various items such as small branches and leaves fallen from nearby trees, into small piles in nearby locations to support and create habitat piles as shelter for wildlife such as hedgehogs and amphibians. In a similar manner, they leave plant stems and seed heads in place so that over the autumn and winter months they too can provide shelter and food sources for a range of wildlife.

While vegetation management and clearance is undertaken at different times throughout the year they see the Autumn and the coming Winter season as a real opportunity to focus in on this particular activity in order to leave plenty of foliage around for insects and birds and also protect any new shoots from the winter frost. As always, whatever the season, prior to the work commencing we carefully check for any signs of wildlife activity including any birds nesting as some birds may nest outside the main season earlier on in the year.

Future dates for your diaries if you would like to join us are:

November; Thursday 3rd and Saturday 26th

December; Thursday 8th

UCAN usually meet at Spring Gardens, Moorgate Street [by the canal bridge], Uppermill at 10:00 AM but sometimes this varies so we will confirm this nearer to each of the above dates.  As usual, all equipment is provided by the Canal and River Trust (CRT). You are recommended to wear suitable clothing and stout footwear for the weather conditions on the day.

We are always pleased to welcome new volunteers and anyone who would like further information please contact Peter Killan on 01457 878361 or email peterkillan@hotmail.com

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