Watercress & Winterbournes – The Myth and Magic of Water Meadows

Perins School

Description

Join Dr Kathy Stearne for a talk on the ecological diversity and historical significance of our local water meadows. This talk will explore the intensive integrated agricultural systems that have been in place for over 400 years and continue to be important today. Kathy focused on water meadows as the topic of her doctoral thesis, and has worked closely with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust for many years. She has over 30 years’ experience of working with farmers to conserve our water meadows and their surrounding landscapes. This talk forms part of Watercress & Winterbournes, a community-led, Heritage Lottery-funded project currently in development by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. The project aims to celebrate, protect, and enhance the chalk stream headwaters of the Rivers Test and Itchen, as well as their rich local heritage. This talk will be repeated on Thursday 29th November at Testbourne Community School in Whitchurch. You don’t need to book for these talks, and they are free to attend. If you have any questions please contact Maggie Shelton on 01489 774400 or maggie.shelton@hiwwt.org.uk. You can find out more about Watercress & Winterbournes at https://www.hiwwt.org.uk/watercress-and-winterbournes