AN 'URGENT' appeal has been launched so an important Dorset nature reserve can thrive in the future.
Kingcombe Meadows Nature Reserve and Kingcombe Centre – which recently welcomed Prince Charles as it marked 30 years being run by Dorset Wildlife Trust – is described as an internationally important wildlife haven and educational facility.
On his visit to Kingcombe, Prince Charles spent some time at the Lady’s Mead meadow where its seed-rich green hay is being used to restore and create other meadows in Dorset and the UK, as part of the Coronation Meadows initiative launched in 2013.
The appeal has been launched by the trust to raise £45,000 to help it continue for the next 30 years.
The 180-hectare nature reserve urgently needs to replace several kilometres of fencing, re-lay a number of hedges and replace old field gates and water troughs to support its grazing programme for the outstanding flower-rich grassland.
Dorset Wildlife Trust is also looking to secure funds to create an innovative outdoor educational space, wildlife exploration zone for families and a boardwalk pavilion by the River Hooke.
DWT stockperson and farm manager, Ashlea Kirk said: “To keep the nature reserve and farm running, a large infrastructure needs to be maintained, and with many environmental funding streams under threat or disappearing it is ever more challenging to secure the income needed to maintain our conservation work.
"Raising money through this appeal is vital so that we can maintain the unspoilt grassland meadows at Kingcombe, but where possible strive to achieve even more gains for wildlife.”
DWT’s West Dorset Living Landscapes Manager Sam Hamer added: “With the money raised we also need to make improvements to public access and interpretation to bolster our engagement and educational activities at the Kingcombe Centre.
"The new facilities will create a special place for the public and in particular families to enjoy and learn about nature. Sadly, we can’t continue do this without the generous help of our members and supporters.”
To donate to the Kingcombe Appeal, visit www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/helpkingcombe, or call 01305 264620.
CONTACT ME:
t: 01305 830983
e: martin.lea
@dorsetecho.co.uk
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