Radipole-Lodmoor
Radipole Lake and Lodmoor nature reserves in Weymouth, Dorset, form one of the largest areas of freshwater reedbeds in the southwest. Each winter, up to three bitterns are recorded feeding and roosting on the reserves, and they may be seen from trails, viewing shelters and the visitor centre.
The aim of the EU LIFE bittern project in Weymouth was to restore 18 hectares (ha, 44 acres) of dry reedbed to wet reedbed to provide ideal conditions for breeding bitterns.
The plan was to dig down about a foot to remove the silts and litter that had built up over the years. This would then be piled along the edge of the reserve, acting as a screen to the road. Unfortunately, the RSPB could not get consent to dispose of the soil on the reserve, as it would have decreased floodplain capacity, albeit by a very small amount. No buildings would have been affected, other than the RSPB\'s visitor centre, which is already affected. There was no affordable or easy way to remove the soil from the site.
Given the complexity of the issues and the time constraints, it was agreed to carry out additional reed-cutting at Radipole and use the funding at Poole Harbour instead.
The RSPB is currently looking at other ways of achieving the objectives at Radipole.
At Lodmoor, the amphibious reed-cutter, the Truxor, cut an area of reed at the back of the site, helping to create open water.
Radipole and Lodmoor nature reserves are also important sites for Cettis warblers, bearded tits and migrating warblers during the autumn.
You can find more information about Radipole Lake and Lodmoor in the reserves section of the RSPB website.
