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Woodland Park Wildlife Pond Project

Close to the village of Ystalyfera is a former park.  In 1924 it boasted bowling greens and tennis courts etc.  Presently, the area is regenerated woodland with a good deal of Rhododendron.  The Ystalyfera development trust recently generated a high level of interest regarding the former park amongst the local community and successfully secured funding (provided by Bodyshop) for the creation of a wildlife pond at the site. 

The ideal site for pond creation would appear to be in a clearing at the foot of a wooded slope. 

Being Wales, there is usually plenty of rain and it is common to see water run off at the site that could be harnessed and used to fill any pond created.  

Ideally, West Glamorgan ARG recommends that an adjoining area of shallow water also be created as habitat for Odonata and common frog.  Encroaching bramble and bracken also needs to be cleared from the clearing before it takes over completely.

Pond dipping platforms and boardwalks could also be constructed to create an area for occasional use as an “outdoor classroom” to teach and engage the children of a nearby junior school with valuable practical ecology lessons whilst simultaneously raising awareness with regard to biodiversity and conservation amongst the next generation.

Hopefully work will begin in the New Year.

Partners;

• Ystalyfera Development Trust
• Mentro Allan, Neath Port Talbot
• BTCV Cymru
• NPTCBC Biodiversity unit
• Local community members
• Wildlife Trust

Funders;

• Bodyshop

Support and Guidance gratefully received from;

• HCT
• CERTs
• ARGUK
• Ian Smith (Welsh Dragonflies)

Project Diary;