Iford Meadows LNR
Management Plan
July 2009
1
PRELIMINARIES
This management plan is based on the policies and principles set out in a number of documents. These are listed below with the relevant sections.
Bournemouth Vision 2026 - Sustainable Community Strategy (Clickhere)
Theme 4, Section 4.5.4.Improve the biodiversity of green spaces.
Corporate Plan (Clickhere)
Priority 1. Improving our environment.
Cultural Strategy (Clickhere)
Aim 5. Conserve, enhance and promote access to Bournemouth’s environment and heritage.
Leisure Strategy (Clickhere)
Paper 2. Parks,Gardens, Countryside and Open Space in Bournemouth.
Policy Statement J. Objectives J3, J4, J5, J7 and J 11.
Bournemouth District Wide Local Plan (Clickhere)
Section 3. The Natural Environment.
Green Space Strategy (Click here)
Nature Conservation Strategy(Click here)
1
SUMMARY
This Management Plan is the second revision of the original Plan written in 1994. It sets out to describe and evaluate Iford Meadows Local Nature Reserve and to prescribe a workable management programme.
While it is taken into account that the site has a high amenity and recreational value, the plan is geared towards habitat management whilst seeking to minimise the inevitable conflicts that arise on such sites.
The Management Plan is divided into three stages:
STAGE 1gives an overall factual description of the site, providing a general background on which to base a management policy.
STAGE 2is an evaluation of the site from an ecological as well as a cultural aspect. Management objectives are then discussed from both aspects.
STAGE 3describes the actual management requirements of the site and how these will be put into practise.
1
CONTENTS
STAGE 1 DESCRIPTION
1.1General Information
1.1.1Location and Summary Description
1.1.2Land Tenure
1.1.3Map Coverage
1.1.4Photographic Coverage
1.2Environmental Information
1.2.1Physical
1.2.2Biological
1.2.3Cultural
1.2.3.1Previous Land Use
1.2.3.2PresentLand Use
1.3Present management
STAGE 2 EVALUATION AND OBJECTIVES
2.1Evaluation of Features
2.1.1Ecological Evaluation
2.1.2Cultural Evaluation
2.2Objectives of Management
STAGE 3 PRESCRIPTION
3.1Working Compartments
3.1.1Plantation
3.1.2Meadow
3.1.3WillowCarr & Reed Bed
3.2General Management
3.2.1Gates, fencing and other structures
3.2.2Litter
3.3Management plan review
1
STAGE 1 DESCRIPTION
1.1General information
1.1.1Location and summary description
Site name :Iford Meadows LNR
District:Bournemouth
County:Dorset
Area:15.9ha
National Grid Reference : SZ 142 932
Local Planning Authorities:Bournemouth Borough Council
Christchurch Borough Council
Iford Meadows LNR is an area of grassland and scrub located in the south east of the Borough of Bournemouth. It is bounded to the north and east by the River Stour, to the west by Iford Lane and to the south by the railway embankment. A small area of the LNR extends to the south of the railway line adjacent to the river.The site was designated as a Local Nature Reserve in 2005.
(See Map1,Map 2 and Photo. 1).
1.1.2Land tenure
Iford Meadows was acquired as three separate parcels of land. The largest purchase was in 1954 when 13.62ha was bought from the Cooper Dean Estate. In 1958, 1.54ha was purchased from the Avon and Dorset River Board, this land including part of the old river course following a channel-straightening operation. In 1970 a strip of land covering 0.82ha was purchased from the British Railways Board.
Approximately 1ha of land in the south-east of the site is leased by the Secretary of State for Defence. This is a 7 year lease with a current expiry date of 24/03/2010.
An area of 30sq.m adjacent to Iford Lane at the northern end of the site is leased to Southern Electric, on a 99-year lease, for an electricity sub-station.
The Borough boundary still follows the old river course but this has no effect on the land management unless planning permission is required. In this case, planning permission would have to be obtained from Christchurch Borough Council.
1.1.3Map coverage
O.S. Sheet 1: 50000 - 195 Landranger Series
O.S. Sheet 1: 1250 - SZ 1393 SE, SZ 1493 SW, SZ 1493 SE
1.1.4Photographic coverage
Bournemouth Borough Council owns the copyright of aerial photography of the whole Borough undertaken in 1998. Further aerial photographs were produced in 2000 and updated in 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2008.The copyright of these is owned by Ordnance Survey.
1.2Environmental information
1.2.1Physical
The area was extensively tipped over in the 1960’s; the tip was eventually capped with a layer of gravel and then topsoil. As the tip has settled, the ground has become very uneven. Occasionally, tipped items can become exposed – these are removed as and when they are located. The pH of the soil is in the region of 6.5 to 7.
1.2.2 Biological
Obviously the process of tipping had a severe impact on the ecology of the site but the area has recovered well since the practice ceased. The site is comprised mainly of grassland with areas of scrub.
The sitehas been ungrazed since 2005 having previously been grazed by horses and ponies.
Much of the scrub has developed naturally and is dominated by common gorse Ulexeuropaeus, blackthorn Prunus spinosa and bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. Parts of the site were fenced off and planted with a mixture of tree and shrub species in 1979 (all of this fencing is now removed). Where the planting was successful, further areas of scrub have developed with dog rose Rosa canina being particularly predominant.
Despite the damage and disturbance caused by the tipping operations, the flora of the site is remarkably diverse. Approximately 150 species of flowering plants have been recorded to date. Whilst many of these are common and widespread, there are a number of more interesting and localised species such as hairy bird’s-foot trefoil Lotus hispidus and subterranean clover Trifolium subterraneum.
Current records of the fauna of the area are a result of casual observations that have revealed a wide variety of both invertebrates and vertebrates. For example, the site is particularly attractive as a feeding and resting stage for a variety of migrant songbirds on both spring and autumn passage.
1.2.3Cultural
1.2.3.1Previous land use
Being adjacent to the River Stour, it is likely that the area would originally have consisted of water meadows grazed by cattle or horses, or cropped for hay. The whole area would probably have been subjected to regular flooding during the winter months.
Tipping occurred on the site during the 1960’s and 70’s, raising the surface by between two to three metres.
1.2.3.2Present land use
The area was grazed by horses and poniesuntil 2005, but has remained ungrazed since then.The major recreational use of the site is for dog walking. The riverbank provides a popular venue for anglers, the fishing rights being owned by the Christchurch Angling Club.
1.3Present management
A network of regularly mown footpaths is maintained throughout the site.
A firebreak is maintained alongside the boundary with the Mobile Home Site at the western end of the site.
The hedge alongside Iford Lane is trimmed annually and kept to a height of approximately 2.5 metres.
The flood protection bunds are kept clear of woody vegetation and are mown annually.
The presence of undesirable plant species such as ragwort Senecio jacobea and Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonicais monitored and spraying programmes initiated as necessary.
A stock-proof fence was constructed in 2009 dividing the meadow area into two. A field gate and 3 pedestrian gates were incorporated.
STAGE 2 EVALUATION AND OBJECTIVES
2.1Evaluation of features
2.1.1Ecological Evaluation
When it is considered that Iford Meadows was tipped over relatively recently, the present wildlife value is high. This is recognised by the site’s designation as a Local Nature Reserve. The area of willow carr and reed bed to the south of the railway is designated as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI), see Map 3. The mixture of open grassland, dense scrub and plantations along with the river and its banks provides a variety of habitats for a number of species.
In places, the grassland sward is quite species-rich with a wide diversity of plants including: agrimony Agrimonia eupatoria, common centaury Centaurium erythraea, lady’s bedstraw Galium verum, thrift Armeria maritima, corky-fruited water dropwort Oenanthe pimpinelloides, restharrow Ononis repens and fleabane Pulicariadysenterica.
Several Orthoptera (grasshoppers and crickets) species have been recorded. These include long-winged conehead Conocephalus discolour, great green bush-cricket Tettigonia viridissima and, since 2006, Roesel’s bush-cricket Metrioptera roeselii.
Butterflies are very much a feature of this site as a result of there being good availability of food plants for the larvae of several species, and a good supply of nectar-rich flowers such as bramble for the adults. Examples of species recorded to date are: meadow brown Maniola jurtina, large skipper Ochlodes venatus, common blue Polyommatus icarus, small copper Lycaena phlaeas and Peacock Inachis io.
A number of dragonfly and damselfly species breed in the River Stour and can be seen on the site. These include: white-legged damselfly Platycnemis pennipes, banded demoiselle Calopteryx splendens, scarce chaser Libellula fulva, and migrant hawker Aeshna mixta.
Iford Meadows is an important area for birds, both resident and migrant, that are attracted by the variety of habitats. The areas of dense scrub, in particular, provide good cover and a rich food supply for species such as song thrush Turdus philomelos, whitethroat Sylvia communis and long-tailed tit Aegithalus caudatus. Green woodpeckers Picus viridis are regularly seen foraging for ants and other insects on the meadows, whilst kingfishers Alcedo atthis are regularly encountered along the river itself. During the winter months, flocks of fieldfare Turdus pilaris and redwing T. iliacus may be present feeding on haws and other berries.
The StourValley is a main route for migratory birds during spring and autumn and Iford Meadows is used as a resting and feeding stage by migrants such as redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus, whinchat Saxicola rubetra and wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe.
Areas of the grassland are grazed by rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculusand foxes Vulpes vulpes are sometimes seen, being particularly active on the railway embankment. There is also plenty of evidence of small mammal activity although, to date, there has been no specific recording.
2.1.2Cultural Evaluation
As with the other areas of Public Open Space within the Borough, Iford Meadows is within easy walking distance for a large number of people. Most of the people visiting the site use it as a place to exercise their dogs. During the open season, anglers visit the site to fish the River Stour. Apart from these activities, there is little other usage of the area. Therefore, considering its position within a predominantly urban environment, it is a relatively undisturbed site much to the benefit of the wildlife.
2. 2Objectives of management
1)Maintain and, where possible, enhance the ecological interest of the site.
2)Continually update records of the flora and fauna in order to build up an ecological profile of the site, and to carry out more detailed surveys.
3)Continue the phased removal of non-nativetree species (e.g. Lombardy poplar Populus nigra) and replace with native species.
4)Introduce cattle grazing.
5)Monitor ragwort growth and control by spraying or pulling.
6)Eradicate invasive alien plant species from site, in particular Japanese knotweed.
7)Monitor the effectiveness of management initiatives and to initiate research projects as required.
8)Ensure that site users are aware of its ecological importance and of the need for it to be managed.
9)Maintain mown footpaths, access features and fencing.
10)Ensure that regular maintenance is undertakensuch asbin emptying and litter picking/removal of rubbish.
STAGE 3 PRESCRIPTION
3.1Habitat Management
For the purposes of the management plan, Iford Meadows LNR has been divided into 3 working compartments. (SeeMap 4)
These are:
1.Plantation
2.Meadow
3.Willow Carr & Reed Bed
For each compartment a brief description is given along withmanagement objectives and requirements.(See Map5 and Map6)
3.1.1Plantation
Description
The plantation is situated in the north-west of the site. It is bounded to the north by the River Stour, to the south by Iford Lane and to the west by a caravan and mobile home park. A fence divides it from the main meadow area to the east.
A flood alleviation bund that runs parallel to the caravan park boundary was constructed by the Environment Agency in 2007.
The strip of land between the bund and the caravan park is maintained as a fire break.
The plantationis dominated by aspen Populus tremulawith Lombardy poplar, blackthorn, hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, gorse and dog rose. The trees were planted in the mid 1970s.
A footpath is maintained giving access around the perimeter of the plantation and a small glade is maintained towards the centre of the compartment.
Objectives
1. Gradually remove Lombardy poplar and replace with native species.
2.Maintain access.
3.Maintain bund and fire break.
4.Maintain glade.
Management
Year1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5
Fell Lombardy poplar (approx. 6 per year) and treat stumps with appropriate herbicide. / * / * / * / * / *
Cut any Lombardy poplar sucker regrowth / * / * / * / * / *
Plant native tree & shrubs / * / *
Mow footpaths and fire break on a regular basis / * / * / * / * / *
Mow bund and glade annually in autumn / * / * / * / * / *
3.1.2Meadow
Description
The Meadow is an area of grassland interspersed with blocks of scrub and maturing woodland. Most of it is former tipland. A fence divides the compartment into two.
Generally, the grassland is botanically-poor but there are areas where there is a more diverse flora with species including lady’s bedstraw, corky-fruited water- dropwort and restharrow.
The scrub is predominantly bramble with European gorse, dog rose and blackthorn.
The developing woodland includes undesirable species such as white poplar Populus alba, sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus and pines Pinus spp.
A hawthorn hedge runs along the boundary with Iford Lane.
Objectives
1.Introduce cattle grazing.
2.Reduce scrub cover (especially bramble) by 25%.
3.Monitor and control ragwort Senecio jacobaeaand creeping thistle Circium arvense.
4.Eradicate Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica.
5.Remove white poplar, sycamore and pines.
6.Maintain access.
7.Maintain boundary hedge.
Management
Year1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5
Erect further stock-proof fencing where required incorporating appropriate access gates / *
Construct stock handling area / *
Install water supply / *
Winter grazing with 6-8 cattle / * / * / * / * / *
Flail scrub / * / * / *
Assess ragwort & thistle management requirements / * / * / * / * / *
Treat Japanese knotweed with appropriate herbicide / * / * / * / * / *
Fell white poplar, sycamore & pines (25% per year). Treat poplar & sycamore stumps with appropriate herbicide / * / * / * / * / *
Trim boundary hedge / * / * / * / * / *
3.1.3Willow Carr & Reed Bed
Description
This is a small area immediately to the south of the railway line. There is a small, reed-fringed inlet bordered by dense stands of mature crack willow Salix fragilis with a considerable value from an ecological point of view. This is recognised in its designation as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI). Common reed is the dominant vegetation here but there are also a number of other typical wetland plants such as yellow iris Iris pseudacorus, marsh marigold Caltha pulustris, purple loosestrife Lythrum salicaria and greater pond sedge Carexriparia.
The dense strands of reed provide nesting habitat for species including reed warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus and sedge warbler A.scheonobaenus.During the winter months it provides shelter for teal Anas crecca, while water rail Rallus aquaticus can be seen feeding amongst the reeds.
There is evidence of otter activity with footprints and spraint (droppings) regularly recorded.
The drier areas are dominated by bramble and nettle with hawthorn, elder and sycamore.
A gravel footpath connects the area with the large block of meadow to the north of the railway line and a boardwalk has been constructed allowing access from the river to the playing field.
Objectives
1.Retain existing ecological value.
2.Maintain access.
3.Control sycamore.
4.Adopt a policy of minimal intervention for willow carr.
Management
Year1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5
Leave all crack willow to collapse and regenerate naturally except where there is an obvious health and safety issue e.g. large hanging boughs above a footpath / * / * / * / * / *
Leave all standing and fallen dead wood except where there is an obvious health and safety issue / * / * / * / * / *
Fell sycamore and treat stumps with an appropriate herbicide. Felled timber to be left on site / * / *
Clear footpath and boardwalk of encroaching vegetation. Monitor condition and maintain as necessary / * / * / * / * / *
3.2General management
3.2.1Gates, fencing and other structures
The condition of all such features will be regularly monitored and maintenance carried out as necessary.
3.2.2Litter
The litter and dog waste bins will be maintained in good order and emptied frequently. Other litter throughout the site will be picked on a regular basis.
3.3Management plan review
The management plan will cover a period of 10 years. However, it will be reviewed after 5 years, particularly in respect of the work programme.
APPENDIX 1
Iford Meadows
Vascular plants
Field mapleAcer campestre
SycamoreA.pseudoplatanus
YarrowAchillea millefolium
Ground-elderAegopodium podagraria
AgrimonyAgrimonia eupatoria
Common bentAgrostis capillaris
Creeping bentA. stolonifera
Alder Alnus glutinosa
Marsh foxtailAlopecurus geniculatus
Meadow foxtailA. pratensis
Scarlet pimpernelAnagallis arvensis
Wild angelicaAngelica sylvestris
Barren bromeAnisantha sterilis
Sweet vernal grassAnthoxanthum odoratum
Cow parsleyAnthriscus sylvestris
Greater burdockArctium lappa
Lesser burdockA. minus
ThriftArmeria maritima
False oat-grassArrenatherum elatius
MugwortArtemesia vulgaris
Michaelmas daisyAster spp.
DaisyBellis perenis
Soft bromeBromus hordeaceus ssp. Hordeaceus
Hedge bindweedCalystegia sepium
Shepherd’s purseCapsella bursa-pastoris
Carnation sedgeCarex flacca
Hairy sedgeC. hirta
False fox-sedgeC. otrubae
HornbeamCarpinus betulus
Black knapweedCentaurea nigra
Common centauryCentaurium erythraea
Red valerianCentranthus ruber