Tree clearance at River Coly will provide 'healthier environment for wildlife'

Colyton residents have been reassured that the recent clearance for trees from the banks of the River Coly at the Peace Memorial playing field will eventually create a "healthier environment" for local wildlife.

Many residents were shocked when the banks were cleared at the end of January.

The Colyton Parish Council Newsletter has reported that this work was necessary work after many years of neglect, which had allowed some fallen willows to reroot themselves midstream, clogging the flow of the river and creating the perfect environment for the colonisation of invasive Himalayan balsam, which can now be accessed more easily in order to eradicate.

Concerns were raised about the possible loss of wildlife habitat, but with the root systems left intact, the trees will soon regrow and provide a much healthier environment for creatures of the riverbank.

There were also concerns about the burning of wood on site. However, these were controlled fires aimed at reducing the amount of fuel burnt in transporting the trees elsewhere and is the normal practise in good countryside management.

Now that the river has been unplugged, it is hoped the severity of the inevitable annual flooding of the playing fields will be reduced as the water is free to make its way downstream.

Would you like to do your bit to help ensure the quality of the River Coly and the state of its wildlife habitats?

Westcountry River Trust's evidence and engagement officer, Lydia Deacon, who helps to run the CSI scheme

The Westcountry Rivers Trust is actively looking for local volunteers willing to do simple surveys as part of a wider campaign to ensure the resilience of rivers right across the region.

The trust's Westcountry Citizen Science Investigations (CSI) team of volunteers carries out water monitoring surveys right across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and West Dorset.

As a CSI volunteer, you would contribute to the resilience of our region's rivers, their habitats and wildlife, by carrying out regular river monitoring.

You will start by taking observational surveys, using the Westcountry CSI form and you'll be able to record information on plants, wildlife, river condition and visible pollution.

You can find out how to join the CSI team here.

With thanks to Colyton Parish Council Newsletter