Latest News of Local Interest

“My best day in the South Downs”

Thanks to www.grandmasgraphics.com for the image.

SDNPA Schools Writing Competition 2014

Written in the style of a travel review, the 500 word entries can focus on one just one place or a whole area; a much-loved walk, the best place to spot butterflies or have a picnic or a favourite attraction. The judges .. will be looking for well written, journalistic articles that capture the readers’ imagination and inspire them to go out and visit the places described. Entries will be judged in two categories: ages 7–10 and ages 11–14. First prize in each is a family ticket to one of fourteen top attractions across the South Downs, second prize will be a £20 book token and third prize a £10 book token.

The deadline is noon on Friday 13th June 2014. You’ll need the entry form and three pages of terms & conditions (you’ll want to seek legal advice after reading the latter).

Ash to ashes [update]

Chalara fraxinea around the South Downs
This soft-focus map shows Chalara fraxinea outbreaks in our region as of April this year. It does not look too alarming. But the disease is spreading rapidly and DEFRA now expects that 50% of ash trees in West Sussex will be infected by 2018. If you own ash trees you will probably want to take a look at the report [PDF] they issued on 30th April. Conveniently, it also covers the Oak Processionary Moth. In addition, they have issued a synopsis of the relevant research [PDF].

The Forestry Commission has released an app for Apple and Android devices that will assist you in recognizing and reporting tree diseases:

Tree alert app

Assistant Reserves Officer

Assistant Reserves Officer Sussex Wildlife Trust Woods Mill
Sussex Wildlife Trust is currently seeking an experienced individual to undertake practical land management activities on their nature reserves and to support the management of livestock. Prerequisites include:

  • Tractor driving and using a range of tractor mounted equipment
  • Operating chainsaws and brushcutters
  • Practical land management, including the application of pesticides

More information here.