Gowy and Mersey Washlands
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Supported by Aggregate Industries
and The Rothschild Foundation
and The Rothschild Foundation
Gowy and Mersey Washlands
By creating a wetland landscape within the Gowy and Mersey Washlands we not only create space for wildlife but the area will also provide essential ecosystem services such as flood water storage and carbon capture. The landscape will also provide tranquil places for local people to visit and enjoy.
The Wildlife Trusts
Intrinsic Value
For centuries rivers have shaped our landscape and have influenced how and where we live. They have provided drinking water, water for industry and have even absorbed some of the pollution we allow to enter rivers. Although the rivers Gowy and Mersey have been massively influenced by industry and agriculture, they have been steadily improving for the better over the past twenty years. We want to contribute to this continuing improvement. Our vision is to create a resilient network of wetland habitats that benefit local wildlife, people and the economy.
The Wildlife Trusts
Emotional Value
Our work has raised the profile of a landscape that was once undervalued by local communities. Through walks, talks and regular volunteering opportunities we have been able to reach out to new audiences and now have an army of people who love the Gowy and Mersey Washlands.
The Wildlife Trusts
Financial Value
Nationally important industries sit along the banks of the rivers Gowy and Mersey and it is vital they are not damaged by flood waters. Our 165 hectare Gowy Meadows Nature Reserve provides flood storage for the nearby oil refinery on the bank of the river Mersey. This is a ‘win, win’ situation as the flood water creates habitats for water voles, wading birds and rare insects. On a smaller scale, we have been showing farmers how to produce high quality beef and lamb from land that is great for wildlife.
The Wildlife Trusts
Societal Value
We would like everyone who lives and works in or near the Gowy and Mersey Washlands to enjoy and value the landscape. We have toured schools and community groups, and have created three ‘Living Walks’ for people to experience the landscape. There are regular opportunities for people to get involved in our work and these often prove to be great social events. We have topped over 1000 hours of volunteer time in less than two years.
The Wildlife Trusts
Get Involved
Creating and maintaining wetland habitats is a big task, but with the help of landowners, volunteers and the local community we are making good progress. We have a packed programme of practical conservation work planned over the next three years including hedgerow creation and restoration, fencing, scrub clearance and woodland planting as well as a suite of survey and monitoring work.
To get involved contact Ben Gregory at Cheshire Wildlife Trust by email bgregory@cheshirewt.org.uk, or by calling 01948 820728.