Part 2 of the programme of marginal planting, in and around the lake edges, is underway to bring about an improved habitat, better bio-diversity, and a splash of colour and interest, whilst helping improve water quality. The second of the seven plants featured is the Purple Loosestrife and we will reveal the others here over the coming weeks.
As part of the amazing lake transformation, a programme of marginal planting in and around the lake edges will shortly be underway to bring about an improved habitat, better bio-diversity, and a splash of colour and interest, whilst helping improve water quality. The first one of the seven plants featured is the lovely Marsh Marigold and we will reveal the others here over the coming weeks.
The second in a fascinating series of insights from BPAG Chairman Robert Pitchford explores the history of the Lake down the years.
Our latest ‘Crafty’ video from the talented Ranger Lisa – let us see your creations on the Easter theme….eggs, bunnies,bonnets or chicks …best ones will win a small prize from Lindsay’s large collection of chocolate eggs !
There’s lots to celebrate in Boultham Park, and we can’t wait until everyone can get up close to explore all that the lake restoration project is delivering. We’ve had so many positive comments about the interpretation panels / public art which was recently installed, and we wanted to take the opportunity to acknowledge Lindsay Johnson.
As well as working for the project team, Lindsay also volunteers for the project, and as a volunteer she wrote the interpretation strategy and designed the interpretation panels and art sculptures that you can see now on the paths surrounding the lake. From the supporting strategy behind the themes and aims, to the materials used, the designs of the sculpture panels, the information on the lecterns and the images on those panels, to where they are sited and which way they face – Lindsay has driven the creation of the wonderful installations we can all now enjoy. This has involved huge skill, patience and many, many hours of hard work and grit. We are truly grateful.
Volunteering can take many forms. Our interpretation panels – one of which is on the theme of volunteering and ‘doing our bit’ – will stand as testament to that for generations to come.
Thank you to Lindsay, and thank you to all of our volunteers in Boultham Park and across the city. We salute you.
The five artwork pieces have now landed by the edge of the lake – each piece has an information panel on a lectern next to it, providing interesting background on many facets of the park and lake through the years. Once the new footpaths open you will be able to see them close up on your walk around the lake. (Click on each panel to open a bigger image to read them)
Ranger Lisa shows you what you need and how to make this excellent craft project
This information panel shows how the Aeration system that is being installed will improve water quality in the lake for many years to come.
Another instructive video by Ranger Lisa from Hartsholme Country Park showing you how to make a simple bird box for the garden.
The project will focus on biodiversity and will include:
Installing aeration equipment (to increase and stabilize the amount of dissolved oxygen in the lake) which will stop silt building up and slowly, over
time, reduce the amount of silt currently in the lake, altogether improving lake water quality
Restoring and improving lake edges
Lake margin, island and woodland understorey planting
Bird and bat boxes
Improving the surface around the Beacon
Introducing more seating
Create a viewing platform, and fishing pegs
Improved footpaths
Tree works (which have already taken place), due to tree condition or where trees were damaging the lake banks for example
Access for occasional boating (on high days and holidays)
Public art with interpretations, for example information about the wildlife, habitat, history of the lake and how to get involved
We are very grateful to the NLHF, and to National Lottery players, for funding the project development work and for contributing almost £660,000
towards restoring our wonderful lake, and for all that they have enabled to happen in the park so far #ThanksToYou
We are also indebted to Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust is our partner on this project, and for the expert advice and support they are providing. We are
also grateful, as always, for the support of the Boultham Park Advisory Group whose enthusiasm for the park and the lake help to drive us forward,
and to our wonderful volunteers.
