Latest news with #biodiverse
Yahoo
7 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Guided walk to explore the biodiversity of Taunton's Longrun Meadow
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 office@
Telegraph
02-08-2025
- Telegraph
The perfect holiday in Sri Lanka, the Indian Ocean's most on-trend destination
Sri Lanka is one of the world's most enigmatic destinations. Size-wise, it's slightly smaller than Scotland, meaning you can cover a lot of ground in two weeks (though it deserves longer, if you have the time). And it's also incredibly biodiverse, with plenty to keep all ages enthralled. On a typical tour, you'll travel through distinct topographical regions, so that each leg of your island journey is a unique adventure. Combine soft-sand beaches, lakes and forest-edged waterfalls with verdant mountains and mist-kissed tea estates, weaving in spellbinding ancient temples and national parks home to leopards, elephants and a vibrant symphony of birds. But it's the kindness, warmth and curiosity of Sri Lankans that will stay with you long after you return home. Always willing to challenge you to a game of cricket, they are also open to sharing their distinct culture and traditions, and their sensational range of regional-diverse cuisine. For more Sri Lanka inspiration, see our guides to the best hotels, restaurants, bars, things to do and beaches. In this guide: How to spend the perfect day in Sri Lanka Morning Get to Dalawella Beach in Unawatuna early for a dip in the ocean's turquoise lagoon and the chance to spy green turtles before the crowds (and their camera phones) arrive. Order fresh juices from Wijaya Beach, an oceanfront staple for all-day wood-fired pizzas and fruity sundowners. Next, hop on a bicycle to absorb Galle's verdant hinterland with Idle Bikes (the headquarters is less than a 10-minute drive away from Wijeya). Their 16-mile Paddy and Lake Trail (which takes around two-and-a-half hours) is moderately challenging yet immerses you in life away from the beach. Pedal through palm-shaded villages wrapped by rippling paddy fields and along quiet tracks criss-crossed by monitor lizards and mongoose to mangroves fringing vast Koggala Lake.
