Autumn 2025 update from TVBC Reserves Officer, Gemma
Hello all, please let me introduce myself. My name is Gemma and I am the Reserves Officer managing Mill Lane Meadows for TVBC, having started the post in August this year.
I wanted to take this opportunity to update you with all that we have been up to at MLM, as it has received a lot of TLC over these last few months! One of my first site meetings since starting in post was to walk the site with your local Councillors, Nick Adams-King and Gordon Bailey, updating them regarding the works planned for the coming months and how we can promote the site to ensure local residents are aware of MLM and what it has to offer. Through October we had a lot going on at the site tree works were completed on the southern path, lifting some of the crowns to let more light in, and some safety work with some low hanging trunks. Following this we had a very successful native tree planting day, which saw 13 volunteers help TVBC staff plant 3 crab apples and 4 cherry trees in both fields. This was the day that Storm Benjamin was due, however we were very fortunate to have exceptionally dry and mild conditions throughout the morning! The trees were funded by the Environment Agency and grown locally at Hilliers in Romsey. After planting, we were very thankful for a wonderful lunch of homemade soup and apple crumble at Sherfield-English village hall for all participants, a lovely way to finish the day. Huge thanks to all who were involved with the lunch for the volunteers, it was very much appreciated by all.
Within days of the trees being planted, our fencing contractor was up at site to install the tree pens around each tree. These pens will ensure protection from deer and rabbits, the finishing touch to the tree planting project. I have held two TVBC team days at site recently to concentrate on willow management, coppicing the willow from around the pond to increase light exposure which will help the biodiversity, and to clear some of the willow on the south-western path which was constantly threatening to encroach. This will be a constant balancing act Ð willow is incredibly important due to its root system stabilizing soil and helping to reduce erosion; however it is also prolific - it can easily take over a site if not managed correctly. The final willow management day is planned for Tuesday 25th November, when I plan to cut the multiple saplings growing in the meadow to the left of
the car park Finally, I have installed a small notice board at the entrance to the site, so
I am able to update visitors to any planned works on MLM. For up to date site information look no further! Please keep on enjoying the beautiful MLM and I will be in touch soon!
Gemma !