Category Archives: Woods Mill

How to Engage in the Planning Process for the Benefit of Wildlife

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How to Engage in the Planning Process for the Benefit of Wildlife
[If you are planning to convert your fields into a new market town, or trying to stop someone else from doing so, then this brief tutorial may be just what you need.]

Laura Brook and Jess Price look at how to engage with planning processes and its impact on wildlife with reference to biodiversity legislation and how to respond to planning applications on biodiversity grounds: (i) an introduction to the planning system in England and key biodiversity legislation & guidance; (ii) the process involved in responding to a planning application on biodiversity grounds; and (iii) some examples of planning applications. A basic run through of the planning system in England and key biodiversity legislation and guidance. An outline of the process involved in responding to a planning application on biodiversity grounds. The course will be run from an ecological stand point and will not cover other planning issues.

Woods Mill, Saturday 4th October, 10:00am–12:30pm. Book here.

Wildlife walk

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Woods Mill summer morning
An afternoon walk on 16th July to celebrate National Countryside Week at Woods Mill Nature Reserve. See the newly restored pond, woodland and meadows. The walk will be led by Steve Tillman, Reserves Manager and Rachel Knott, Volunteer Assistant Reserves Officer, whose training is funded by The Prince’s Countryside Fund. The walk is free but booking is essential (places are limited). Call Georgie on 01273 497507 to book and to discover the start time, assembly point, etc.

Carve a Medieval-Style Leaf Plaque

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Ivy Fruit carving by Janine Creaye
A two-day course at Woods Mill taught by Janine Creaye for those who want to learn the basic techniques of woodcarving whilst creating an achievable small relief design. This course will cover the best tools to use, tool sharpening, and wood staining. A short time will be spent on the reserve looking for natural inspiration. Sussex Wildlife Trust commissioned four carvings from Janine in 2011 and they can be seen at Woods Mill, in situ, or here. Sundays 13th & 20th July, 10:00am-4:00pm, £110 for both days. Course information sheet [PDF] and booking (only two places left).

Identifying Grasses, Sedges & Rushes

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Identifying Grasses, Sedges & Rushes
Two day course taught by Graeme Lyons at Woods Mill, 4th & 5th July. The first day looks at grasses and the second day at sedges and rushes. Attendees should gain a greater understanding of this difficult but ecologically important group of vascular plants. Specimens will be brought in from other habitats. This course often has a waiting list so book early to avoid disappointment.