We treasure our semi rural location and there are a number of groups who work to protect the environment. The Rights of Way Volunteer group (run by Horndean Parish Council if you are interested in helping) do sterling hands on work, and are complimented by the Horndean Biodiversity Group. This organisation, chaired by John Vigay, a local well respected ecologist, has just completed their study into Horndeans biodiversity. This describes the animal and plant species that are found in the parish, the sites that provide their habitat, and the actions that can be taken to protect and enhance them. This is not just about development or what larger organisation can do, but it also describes how individual households can create habitats in their own back gardens as well as supporting nature reserves and the work of the Parish Council who look after much of the green space. “We are fortunate that Horndean has a lot of green space and wild countryside, despite the pressure from new housing, as well as containing fragments of ancient woodland and hedgerows which support the large numbers of plants and animals described in the BAP. We believe that many of our residents are as keen as we are for our local environment to be preserved. A measure of the success of the BAP will be the extent to which local people take part and help with activities such as wild flower and animal surveys, tree planting, as well as encouraging wildlife in their gardens.” John Vigay, Chairman, Horndean Biodiversity Group.
You can download a copy of the BAP by visiting Horndean BAP and residents can ask for a copy by e-mailing horndeanbiodiversitygroup@gmail.com (A donation of £5.00 per copy would be appreciated to help cover some of the costs)
