RSPB celebrates funding boost for saltmarsh restoration

Viewing platform - Hesketh Out Marsh

Great News for RSPB Hesketh Out Marsh nature reserve

Rare lagoon habitats could soon be created at RSPB Hesketh Out Marsh thanks to a funding boost of  £48,786 from The Veolia Environmental Trust.

The reserve, near Southport, will use the funding to carry out saltmarsh restoration work, which will involve enhancing the lagoons to hold water at low tide. Such coastal lagoons are one of the UK s rarest

habitats and the work will increase the diversity of the wildlife populations in the area. In addition, habitat  refuges  will be created, in the form of ridges and bunds, to provide elevated areas at high tide.

The project will also deliver a comprehensive monitoring programme, which will document the plants and animals that are found on site and monitor the changes as they take place.

Tony Baker, RSPB Ribble Sites Manager, said:  We are extremely grateful for the generous donation from The Veolia Environmental Trust and the work it will enable us to do at RSPB Hesketh Out Marsh.

As part of the project, RSPB reserve staff and volunteers will also be involved in monitoring wintering and breeding bird populations on site.

The Executive Director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, McNabb Laurie, said:  Saline lagoons such as this are critically important for a number of specialised species and habitats, as well as having a

significant role in flood control. I m so glad The Veolia Environmental Trust is able to support the RSPB's work to enhance the Hesketh Out  Marsh reserve for wildlife and the visiting public. 

:-) Laura