CONSERVATION work set to take place at a popular nature reserve near Alfrick has been described as ‘absolutely essential’ by the officer responsible for the site.
The Knapp and Papermill nature reserve at Alfrick Pound will have the overhanging trees from around the meadow edges removed in a bid to increase the amount of light available to the wildflowers which grow there.
Worcestershire Wildlife Trust will undertake the work which is set to improve the area for both meadow and woodland species and will take place over two winters to spread out the impact on the site.
James Hitchcock, conservation officer responsible for the reserve, said: “It has been a few years since we have done work on this scale at The Knapp and Papermill and the way may initially seem severe; however it is absolutely essential for the wildlife.
“This work, in part funded by the Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is part of the ongoing restoration and management of this beautiful nature reserve nestles in the valley of the Leigh Brook.
“If this work is not carried out the decline in number and variety of species in the meadows is inevitable.
“Along with encouraging visitors to keep dogs on leads and not straying from the paths, this work really gives us a great opportunity to give our wildflowers and all the species that rely on them a real helping hand.”
Work is expected to last for about ten days.
Visit www.worcswildelifetrust.co.uk or contact 01905 754919 for more information about the work.
