Latest Aerial Images from Hilgay and Methwold

Photo by Hexcam

Nick Carter, Conservation Officer (Fens)

The latest images, taken in mid-June, highlight the progress of works going on at Methwold by Fen Group. They show that Fen Group has constructed the main embankment and ditch all the way along the access track, approximately 1km, and are turning to head back northwards.  Work is also now progressing on the smaller, flood protection perimeter ditch and bank (top right) after the archaeological study of the buried Neolithic soils has been completed. The water control structures have been constructed and are ready to be installed to regulate the flow of water between the two reedbed compartments and from the reedbed onto the adjacent grassland. The aim is to finish the construction work by the end of October this year.  Some reed planting will take place in late summer.

Wissey, 2013, photo by Hexcam

The images from Hilgay show the raised water levels that have been achieved at that site although levels had been steadily dropping prior to the drone flight by Hexcam. The before (taken in 2013) and after clearly show how much wetter the site is now which will aid the spread of reeds from the naturally occurring patches and the planted areas. Further reed planting will take place this summer. The lagoon area in the foreground at its maximum depth of water would be completely flooded.  All of the future reedbed areas have reached their maximum water levels and are still wet despite the current very dry conditions.

Wissey 2015, photo by Hexcam