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WALKERS, PLEASE SPREAD OUT!
The Scillonian landscape attracts a great deal of attention, for its
outstanding beauty and the unspoilt nature of its open spaces and uninhabited
islands. However, nature cannot be left entirely unaided if what
is generated is to fit the needs of the humans who use and enjoy the countryside,
as well as protecting the flora and fauna that has made Scilly so unique.
Most open spaces respond to being used and this includes both humans and
grazing animals. The Environmental Trust has a policy of free access
to all its leased land and positively encourages visitors to enjoy the
open spaces and coast. One problem we experience is the way that
walkers insist upon walking in single file, wearing a groove in the centre
of a path. We would ask people to spread out, and help keep paths
wider and healthier.
THE POLLUTER DOES NOT PAY?
The recent easterly winds have brought in more polyester film, but
the quantity coming ashore does seem to be getting less. It is hoped
that up to two hundred quarter ton rolls will be recovered before Christmas.
This will leave some one hundred and forty not found and it has to be expected
that these remaining rolls will all be broken up during the winter months.
The owners of the Cita have not been inclined to accept responsibility
for the pollution and damage caused by the film and it is unlikely that
compensation will be achieved without a huge fight. Whatever happened
to the political aim that the 'polluter pays'? We will have to expect
that the film will continue to land on our beaches for several years.
THE STRONG SPRINGS
The new extension to the Lower Moors path at Rose Hill achieved good
publicity when a secretive American bird spent several days at the site.
It was only the fifth time that the Common Yellowthroat had been seen in
the UK and the second such visit to Scilly. Given the right wind
conditions, it would be possible for an American bird to cross the Atlantic
in around forty eight hours. The Trust has had several complaints
about the strong springs used on the Lower Moors gates, and in view of
this, different catches will be fitted to make them easier to use.
Even if the summer proved to be wetter than expected, the sea temperature
proved to be warmer than an average season. It was probably the warm
conditions that resulted in a number of late sightings of Sunfish and there
were also several small Portuguese-men-of -war found. The unexpected
rainfall also affected the Trust's management work, and planned improvements
to both Porthloo Pool and Argy Moor Pool had to be held over until next
year. We hope to dig out the pools, improve the banks and provide
sluices to enable us to control the water better in dry conditions.
IMPROVEMENTS POSITIONED
The Support Group are planning to undertake a number of projects during
the winter months and would welcome extra assistance. The meetings
are relatively short and can be very enjoyable and satisfying. Anyone
who can spare some time will be most welcome to join in with the activity.
There will be regular jaunts to Porth Hellick to attack the polyester film
and black bags are being left at each end of the beach for individuals
who wish to help
with this.
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