9th September 2009

Snaky Open Day: The Cattle are Returning

Cattle are returning to Snaky Lane wildlife area on Sunday 20th September and to mark the occasion the community volunteer group that look after the site are holding a special open day to tell people about their work. Anyone interested in finding out more about the grazing project can come along to this green oasis located in Ash Vale between 11am and 3.30pm. As well as the returning cattle there will be plenty of fun, hands-on activities for families to do including going on a bug hunt, discovering the ‘alien’ creatures from the pond and seeing the fantastic birds of prey. There will be an opportunity to find out more about the site’s management and time to just take a walk around the seven-acre site.  

Last year the Snaky Lane Wildlife Group received money through a BBC Breathing Places grant to graze the site, this comprised fencing in part of the site to allow it to be safely grazed by Highland Cattle. This proved very successful and the cattle will be returning to the site on 20th September to resume their task of working their way through the rough grass, bramble, gorse and other scrubby plants.  Grazing is a traditional form of meadow management and will maintain and improve the site’s grassland flora and fauna. It also improves access to the unused part of the site, whilst the cattle provide a focal point for local people encouraging interest and involvement in the site.

Located in the very north-west corner of Guildford Borough, Snaky Lane is managed by the Snaky Lane Community Wildlife Group for people and wildlife. With the help of the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership, the group meet on the first Sunday of each month to carrying out conservation and management work. 

Snaky Lane is located in Ash Vale between Stratford Road and Meadow Lane.  If you would like to find out more about the site itself or the event ring the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership on 01252 331353 or visit www.blackwater-valley.org.uk

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For more information contact :
Christine Reeves on 01252 331353. 
BVCP, Ash Lock Cottage, Government Road, Aldershot GU11 2PS