Guided walk to explore the biodiversity of Taunton's Longrun Meadow

Yahoo

8 hours ago

A guided walk will soon offer a closer look at one of Somerset's most biodiverse public spaces.
Taking place on Saturday, August 16, the event will explore Longrun Meadow in Taunton, a wildlife haven that began as a flood defence solution.
Helen Lawy, environment co-ordinator and chairperson of Friends of Longrun Meadow, said: "The group runs entirely by volunteers who meet weekly and carry out conservation tasks.
"Right from the beginning there has been lots to do, whether that's ditch clearing, hedge laying – recently we've been scything."
Established in 2011, Friends of Longrun Meadow has played a key role in transforming the area from ryegrass-dominated farmland into a vibrant ecosystem supporting rare and threatened species.
The meadow's development began with an Environment Agency flood management plan for Taunton, leading to the creation of flood ponds in 2008 and formal landscaping plans in 2010.
It was opened to the public later that year as a countryside park.
Designed by landscape architects Swan Paul, the site includes footpaths, orienteering equipment, interpretation panels, and the willow cathedral, designed by artist Stefan Jennings.
The space now serves as a community hub, hosting a weekly parkrun and regular visits from youth groups.
The group's conservation work is supported by Somerset Council and DEFRA through a stewardship agreement, which also facilitates educational visits from schools.
Tasks include coppicing, pollarding, wildlife surveying, and the production of green hay to promote species-rich grassland.
Conservation efforts have identified more than 500 species of plants and wildlife within the meadow, including kingfishers, brown trout, and rare butterflies.
Ms Lawy said: "The Wildlife Trust wanted to survey the site for harvest mice, and I just pooh-poohed it – but it turns out we do have them."
The group has also introduced native yellow rattle, a plant that suppresses dominant grasses and encourages greater biodiversity.
As Longrun Meadow grows in ecological value, so do the conservation challenges.
Ms Lawy noted issues such as riverbank erosion caused by dogs, along with illegal camping and anti-social behaviour.
She said public education is key, and that signs are now used to explain conservation work as it happens.
The guided walk will be hosted by the Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society (SANHS).
Booking and further details are available via the SANHS Facebook page or website, by calling 01823 272429, or by emailing [e-mail].