It’s been a year since we officially opened the reserve and what a year it’s been! We finally got our pond! We found a Nathusius pipistrelle! We had frog spawn in the wetlands! We planted a disease-resistant Elm in honour of Jamal Edwards with JDelve. We got a proper greenhouse. We received a grant to install guttering and water butts so we will have water in the summer to keep the garden alive! We got an unanticipated meadow, and an accidental seasonal pond.
One thing that has recently changed is that the water that flowed into the site from the hill to the west of the reserve has stopped flowing. It was a mystery as to where that water was coming from but we knew it was clean and not grey water and flowed consistently even in the drought so we incorporated it into our plans for the site.
However, lately, it looks like that flow has stopped. Perhaps there is a blockage, or a leak was repaired up the hill, but at this time it seems like it might stay damp, but I don’t think the wetlands at the top of the reserve will be the same. The small pond may be more seasonal and that area may dry out completely. Only time will tell but we will roll with it and let the land do what it will. We will move the water lily to the large pond, which needs deeper water.
The large pond is holding water beautifully but it is now very low through evaporation this summer, but we hope it will have water in the deepest parts year round.
We have newts and efts in every pond, including the ones next to the cabin. We had a Bio Blitz in April and we will have another one on July 8th.
Over the next few months, we will be refining our long-term management plans for the reserve and we’d love to get more of you involved to support us. You don’t need to be a gardener or horticulturist or have building skills, you just need enthusiasm. If you can spare three hours on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays each month, or even just one Saturday a month come and join our happy team!
Volunteer testimonials
“The people are the best part of volunteering at Costons Lane! Every time I meet new people with interesting backgrounds. I started at Costons Lane for my DofE and haven’t stopped supporting as it’s given me priceless experience for university. I’ve learnt a vast array of skills from ecology fieldwork to managing a nature reserve. I believe that others should get involved at Costons because it is a great time to learn from lots of people with interesting backgrounds.
Everyone can volunteer at Costons no matter their physical ability, age or background; we all have something invaluable to offer.”
~ Ilyan
“I love volunteering at Costons Lane as not only is it local, it has a good friendly team who have always been made to feel welcome. I’ve seen things up close I have never seen before like Newts, Woodpeckers and Jays and it‘s a good way of actually doing something to help the wildlife and wildflowers that need our help. It’s ok to offer as much or as little time as possible and I’ve been encouraged to get involved in other Ealing Wildlife Group projects too.
I brought my Beaver Scouts on a visit which so far has been the highlight of their year!
My thanks to all the team at Costons nature reserve.”
~ Elaine
If you can spare a few hours a month to volunteer let us know!