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Project
origins
Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve was donated to English
Nature following the completion of peat extraction on the site.
Restoration of the old peat workings began in the early 1990s and
was completed at the end of 2003. The project involved the creation
of a mosaic of open water channels, reedbeds and scrub for wintering
and breeding waterfowl, in particular the nationally rare bittern
and breeding wetland song birds such as the Cetti's and reed warblers.
As well as enhancing the biodiversity, this project has conserved
nationally important archaeological features found on the site.
Action
for biodiversity
Shapwick Heath is now one of the largest open water and reed swamp
areas in SW England. A large number of BAP species and habitats
occur within the NNR. The project has been beneficial to a wide
range of species including otters, water vole, bittern and many
species of waterfowl.
Relationships
to sustainable development
Shapwick Heath is a spotlight NNR, receiving over 10, 000 visitors
each year. The site offers access for the general public, with a
series of walkways offering excellent opportunities for exercise
and recreation, a cycle path also runs through part of the reserve.
English Nature is keen to construct a raised walkway to improve
access to the site for all. The site provides many opportunities
for increasing understanding of this valuable ecosystem and helps
to foster an appreciation of nature in its visitors.
Reed and other wetland vegetation cut from the site can be recycled
and may be used as a peat substitute in future. Reclaimed materials
have been used to construct walkways and seating areas. Where possible
local contractors are employed for site based works and local people
are encouraged to become actively involved in the management of
the site.
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