Two ponds at Upwood Meadows nature reserve required urgent restoration due to heavy silt and vegetation build-up, which had reduced their capacity so there was not enough water for livestock, aquatic plants, and insects. The ponds had not been fully cleared for over 20 years. But now vital work has been undertaken thank to a £2,000 grant from Grantscape and the Ramsey Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund.

Upwood Meadows is a nationally significant wildlife site, with ponds central to its biodiversity. These ponds attract a wide range of species and sustain the surrounding nature reserve. Funding from Grantscape enabled essential restoration works and provided valuable training opportunities for staff, strengthening our capacity for future conservation projects.

In Bentley Meadow, large earth and silt mounds—remnants of past restoration—were also restricting access and covering areas of species-rich grassland. These were removed and the area reprofiled to restore natural topography and improve access.

Eamonn Lawlor, senior reserves officer at the Wildlife Trust BCN, said: “Upwood Meadows is a truly special place, recognised nationally for its rich wildlife. The ponds are at the heart of the reserve, drawing in animals and plants from across the landscape and bringing energy and life to the meadows. 

“We’re so grateful to Grantscape for supporting this project, which has helped us care for these vital habitats. It’s also been a fantastic chance for our team to learn new skills, so we can continue restoring and protecting nature across the county.”