Hoe stream water vole project

Photograph by Robert Redfern

The Water vole is a national and local Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority species.  Hoe Stream Water Vole Project is a habitat enhancement scheme which althought targeted specifically for Water Voles will also benefit the survival of a variety of wet meadow plants and invertebrates, by creating a more diverse habitat.  Re-digging selected ditches at Mayford Meadows Local Nature Reserve has helped to provide additional Water Vole habitat away from the main Hoe Stream.  Coppicing and selected removal of Alder and Willow trees, is also regularly carried out to prevent the loss of the meadow plants which would otherwise be shaded out by the taller tree growth.  It will also help to retain this scarce wetland habitat and encourage aquatic plants to survive.  The project is a partnership with Woking Borough Council Cultural and Community Services department.  The project also includes ongoing monitoring of other potential Water Vole sites in the catchment area. 

For more information please contact Dave Williams, Mammal Officer, Surrey Wildlife Trust, School lane, Pirbright, Surrey GU4 0JN

T. 01483 795 4554

email: Dave.williams@surreywt.org.uk

website: www.SurreyWildlifeTrust.co.uk