Getting hands-on at Thames Road Wetland

👀 Important: please read the full information below as there are special instructions for booking your place.

Despite its urban surroundings, Thames Road Wetland is part of a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation, making it one of the best sites for wildlife in London. It is home to rarities including stately Marsh Sow Thistles, tiny Brookweed, Water Voles and Harvest Mice along with a wide range of invertebrates and birds such as Water Rail, Cettis and Reed Warblers.

Wetlands like this are crucial for biodiversity and play an important role in purifying water, reducing flood risk, and storing carbon.

Like other sites in urbanised areas, it lacks the full range of species that would once have helped maintain a balance of wildlife, and that's where this session comes in...

Alongside Thames 21 volunteers, we'll be helping with winter activities such as cutting and removing Reed from shallow areas to maintain open water for birds and dragonflies, cutting back selected trees and chopping up and stacking the brash, removing silt, and clearing paths. No prior experience needed, just a willingness to get stuck in!

All tools, waders and kit will be provided.

Besides supporting the site's wildlife, this task is a rewarding way to connect with nature and meet other people.

What to wear and bring

You will need to wear clothes suitable for working outdoors, bring adequate sun/rain protection and any food and drink required.

Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided.

There are toilet facilities nearby at the council depot which also has a canteen. There are also some convenience stores about 10 mins away.

📍When and where

The events start at 10.30am, but please arrive at 10am to get kitted up and briefed at the meeting point, which is by the steps near Thames Road on By-way 105 (what3words location: dome.silly.above) near the bridge where the road crosses the River Cray. The postcode is Thames Road Wetland, DA1 4RF.

Finish time is around 2pm, but feel free to go whenever you need to.

Booking

As well as signing up via this listing, please book your place via this link so Thames 21 can ensure there's enough kit for you: https://book.plinth.org.uk/e/0WCJmk9xkzaAmCNTk2TC

If you find you can't make it please email [email protected] so that someone else gets the chance to join in, and un-sign from this listing.

Please contact Sam if you have any further questions.