Cow Myers: 06-06-2017

This week 7 NCVs returned to a place that they have not visited for a number of years, namely Cow Myers SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest), near Galphay. Previously we have been called on to remove encroaching blackthorn, but this time we had to remove invasive weed growth (especially burdock) to allow conservation pony grazing to maintain the wildflower and insect rich meadows. The day was wet, the area was marshy and wellies were the order of the day - but everyone enjoyed themselves in the mire! 

Ann Poulson also visited to see where her ponies were collecting burrs in their coats.  The burdock was mostly under the trees, which is one of their favourite spots.  The larger plants were quite difficult to dig out as the roots were so long and there were a great many small seedlings which Ann thinks the ponies will trample down, thankfully.

 

The advance of the trifids - burdock has VERY 
big leaves which shade out other flowers...

...and EXTRA long roots.

Alistair was particularly pleased with 
himself once this beauty had conceded defeat.

Everyone got busy with spades or loppers...

...but every so often you just had to stop 
and wonder what best to do next.

Phil was happy in his work.

The list of interesting flora spotted was extensive and included Lousewort, Marsh valerian and Common spotted orchid as well as those shown below.

Bird’s-eye primrose

 Northern marsh orchid

 Butterwort

 Common twayblade

Yellow flag iris 

The owner of the area, Tom Ramsden, met us with the key to 'The Witch of the Woods' cottage, which allowed us a dry coffee and lunch break.  And very grateful we were too.  It is a fascinating little cottage with much history which was renovated a few years ago.Tom is now looking for a tenant to look after it, mainly to keep it dry. It has no electricity or running water and no internet access. Anyone Interested?

The outside of the cottage and the brave NCVs.

 Inside - cosy, if not ultra modern.

 No fewer than two dining tables!

By the time the NCVs had finished the ponies could be assured of being able to graze without getting their coats full of burdock seed heads. 

Anita