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Deb's
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Copyright © 2009 D R Allan |
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Biodiversity in Gosport |
| Living Earth |
Do I have to turn into an 'Eco-warrior' to help ? <> Do we have 'Biodiversity' in Gosport ? <> Does biodiversity matter? <> How much does it cost ? <> What can I do to help ? <> I don't want everything left to go wild - it all sounds daft to me ! <> Where can I find out more ?
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As you can see, biodiversity is not just about protecting a single animal or plant species, it is about preserving, and enhancing, the richness of the landscapes, habitats and species which we have, in the hope that the next generation will have something worth inheriting.
Do I have to turn into an 'Eco-warrior' to help ?
Definitely not. Just following a few of those 'Green' tips you find in daily papers and magazines, or hear on the TV and radio. At the lowest level, not wasting energy, or leaving the lawn an extra day a two between cuts - will ultimately help biodiversity. Everything that you do to help - no matter how trivial it seems - DOES help. Many of the small things that you can do will actually save you money as well !
Do we have 'Biodiversity' in Gosport ?
Yes! We have in fact got some areas which are very important for biodiversity, both at a county and national level. South Browndown's 'coastal heathland' is a unique habitat, there is probably not another area quite like in the whole country. Browndown and Gilkicker are particularly important for their populations of rare plants, birds and insects. The Dartford Warbler and Nottingham Catchfly (a flower), are both present on Browndown, and the Bloody-nosed Weevil recorded at Gilkicker Point, has possibly been recently discovered on Browndown.
There are many rare species in Gosport,as well as the not-so-rare; they all contribute to the 'biodiversity' of Gosport the Wildflowers of Gosport and Hampshire shows just some of the plants we have here.
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Parasol (Macrolepiota procera)
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Browndown SSSI (ranges), Gosport, Hampshire, 25th August 2000 |
The Postcode Plants Database explains why it is a good idea to choose native plants. (The lists are not only of native plants species though).
Does biodiversity matter?
Yes, it does. Each living thing is part of the earth as a whole, filling a need and fitting into it's 'place', just as each part of a jigsaw puzzle does. If just one piece is missing somewhere, it doesn't seem to be much of a problem, but if too many pieces go missing, it starts to fall apart.
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Note: This article is not intended to infer that I have no cobwebs on my ceilings!
How much does it cost ?
In the short term enhancing biodiversity should not cost any more than the usual regular maintenance jobs e.g. why should it cost more to plant native trees which provide food-sources for native birds and butterflies, rather than 'ornamental' (usually foreign) trees which native species do not thrive on. I believe that in many cases it should be cheaper to 'Go Native'. By the same reasoning long term costs should be equal to or lower than maintaining ornamental plants which often require special care, or, because of the lack of natural competition and 'barriers' end up becoming invasive and expensive to contain or eradicate.
In the long term, I believe that there are only benefits in maintaining the diversity of species, and that the cost both monetary and ecological, will be great if we fail to do so.
What can I do to help ?
There are many things which can be done, many of them with little or no effort and cost.
Consume less No, I don't mean going on a diet! Use less of those products which use up the earth's natural resources, like fuel and paper (magazines can be recycled by passing them on to your friends/neighbours or the local surgery). Remember the three R's - Reduce, Re-use and Recycle.
Use a washing-up bowl Most kitchen sinks are too big for a few tea things and you will save hot water and washing-up liquid.
Recycle where you can by supporting recyling schemes.
Take a look at The Postcode Plants Database to find out which plants, and animals are (or were) native in your Postcode area, and why it's a good idea to choose native plants.
I don't want everything left to go wild - it all sounds daft to me !
Having biodiversity doesn't mean you must live in a jungle, native or not. Areas should be specially selected for their suitability, hopefully, with input from local people who know what is (and isn't) needed in their area. A little-used area of 'rough' ground might be suitable for a once-a-year cut, but the same treatment would not be appropriate for 'show-piece' areas like the Ferry Gardens or Stanley Park. Biodiversity can be helped simply by leaving a large open area of regularly-cut grass with 5-10 metres of the edge left alone during regular maintenance, and only cut once a year. There will hopefully be some areas where scrub or woodland could be allowed to develop.
Where can I find out more ?
Local libraries are always a useful source of information, there are usually leaflets from a variety of sources, local groups, Government departments and national organisations with contact No's. I have always found Gosport's librarians to be very willing to help with information finding.
Local Council offices may be able to provide some information, and have a variety of very helpful leaflets with tips on helping the environment generally, and saving energy (which also saves you money)!
To find out more about biodiversity and wildlife in Gosport (Hampshire, UK) contact:
The Gosport COUNTRYSIDE SECTION
Grange Farm
Little Woodhams Lane (Off Howe Road)
Rowner
Tel. (023) 9258 8666
<> Contact me