The Hook became a Local Nature Reserve in 2009 and is managed the “Friends of The Hook” in partnership with Rushcliffe Borough Council, and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trusts.
We were delighted to be awarded the “Environmental Group of the year Award” at last year’s Celebrating Rushcliffe Awards ceremony, an indication of the recognition of the valuable work carried out by our volunteers to protect and enhance the Hook, increasing its biodiversity and making it a haven for wildlife, whilst providing a green space for everyone to enjoy.
This has been recognised nationally as we have also been awarded our first coveted Green Flag Award and we are now officially recognised as one of the UK’s best green spaces, among 2,227 other parks and green places across the UK.
Over the last year the wildlife pond on the Hook developed a leak and despite investigation the source could not be identified. With advice from East Midlands Environmental contractor (EMEC), we decided that the only solution was to replace the existing liner. Due to the high cost, we needed to apply for a grant from the Rushcliffe Community Infrastructure Levy and were successful. The work was carried out at the end of August by EMEC laying a Bentonite (fabric and clay) liner which was covered in soil. After the soil has settled, a dipping platform will be constructed, the pond filled with water and the area will be seeded with a wildflower mix. This will allow it to settle over winter ready for next spring.
On Saturday mornings the Lady Bay Birdwatchers meet for a Hook Watch at 08.00 at the Holme Grove steps. Coffee and cake after! Anyone is welcome. There have been many sightings of young birds during August showing that the creation of undisturbed areas has helped the birds to breed. Over 90 different species including, the purple heron and white egret, have been identified on the Hook this year, thanks to the diligence of the birdwatchers group. Also thanks to everyone who has respected these areas and cooperated with us to enhance the wildlife on the Hook particularly in our conservation area, marked on our notice boards.
For the last 5 years a dedicated team of volunteers have been undertaking weekly surveys of butterflies on the Hook and reported their findings to the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme. In 2023 almost 1,000 butterflies were recorded from April until September. So far 21 different species have been recorded over the 5 years. The planting of wildflowers by our volunteers has made a difference attracting a greater number of butterflies and other insects.
Our volunteers are a friendly group and meet every first Sunday of the month at 2.00pm at the Mona Road entrance to the Hook. We can supply equipment and gardening tools so come along and join us you can really make a difference.
Written by Jeff Mackintosh