The project was conducted during August and September so that ground-nesting birds were not disturbed.
Erewash Meadows Nature Reserve is located on the Derbyshire-Nottinghamshire border, near Jacksdale. A significant, and treasured wetland reserve it provides essential refuge to a variety of native and nationally important species, including breeding skylarks, water voles and lapwings, as well as white-clawed crayfish that reside in the Cromford Canal. Its habitat enables these species, and more to survive and thrive.
Cattle graze the land for much of the year, which can greatly benefit the wetland habitat creating a variety of lengths of grass for nesting birds and controlling non-native pest species. The restoration project has seen the erection of new fencing to control the movement of the cattle, ensuring the wetland areas and meadow are grazed appropriately. The project has also witnessed the resurfacing of boggy paths to allow better year-round access, and the re-establishment of marshland and scrapes for feeding waders.
