Monmouthshire poised for new wetland reserve
A new wetland nature reserve in Monmouthshire has been proposed to encourage wildlife, reduce water pollution, and provide a green space for visitors.
Landowner Ben Jones, Gwent Wildlife Trust, and Monmouthshire County Council are in the early stages of planning the scheme near Llanfoist.
Mr Jones, tenant of Grove Farm, has been lobbying for years to convert the land into a wildlife reserve. He said: "I felt that there was too much land being given up for development and taken away from wildlife, so my idea springs from that. In terms of education opportunity and wellbeing it will be a reserve to go and relax at to watch nature."
It's hoped Northern Lapwing will be attracted to the proposed wetland reserve at Llanfoist (Walter Schulenburg).
Mr Jones has proposed that they rewild 40 ha of land bordering the River Usk. The team are considering introducing paths and bird hides to allow people to come and enjoy the reserve, but access will have to be managed to make sure wildlife is not disturbed. The area will be dug to create ponds and reedbeds, and naturally occurring wetland species like Alder and Willow will be planted.
Adam Taylor, chief executive of Gwent Wildlife, said: "The River Usk is a hotbed for otters, we hope that they will be able to use this reserve. Another species we hope will benefit is Northern Lapwing. It is a beautiful bird but in decline. They were on the site until around ten years ago and we hope that by wetting the areas they will return to nest."