The area of Barnhill in Blantyre has in recent weeks undergone a most amazing environmental transformation.
A brand new pond has been formed at the former Niaroo site, midway down the Pech brae (just down from the Hoolets).
In a relatively secluded riverside field once occupied by the Smith family until 1971, then later by travellers, the Niaroo site was until recent times looking a little neglected and a haven for fly tippers.
However, volunteers in the Friends of the Calder working alongside South Lanarkshire Council’s Rangers took time out at the end of September to clear and fell a huge amount of wood. The site has been earmarked for some time for the creation of a funded Frog Pond, introducing new wildlife into the area.
The community group’s hard work certainly paid off, for this week saw the earthwork formation of the pond take place on time. The next step needed is some heavy rainfall, for the pond to fill up before the final step of introducing frogs and interesting pond plants.
A circular route around the pond is ideal for walking. It is hoped that families will show their children this area in future once it becomes more established and take an interest in this remarkable community project.
This project has been made possible due to funding provided by Froglife, South Lanarkshire Council and Biffa Award. Other local areas will benefit from the programme with new ponds scheduled for Hamilton and Calderwood.
If you’re interested in reading more, the projects main aims are:
- To promote ponds and the surrounding environment as vital habitats for the survival of amphibians and reptiles
- To create and restore standing water habitats
- To provide advice to community groups, schools, allotment holders, friends groups etc to increase standing water with a view to increase biodiversity
- To increase suitable terrestrial features for amphibians and reptiles
- To monitor and survey chosen sites
- To provide training and hands on opportunities to volunteers in practical habitat management and survey skills.
Photo of felling, courtesy of C Hynes.
Photo of Pond formation, courtesy of J Brown.
with thanks.
