Project Background

Rushy Pond has strong cultural significance in the Dorset landscape due to writings of Thomas Hardy (1840- 1928). It is it very close to the cottage in which the writer was born and grew up. Rushy Pond is mentioned in his novels, poetry and when recounting stories from his life.

Rushy Pond is considered locally important for wildlife as few ponds exists within the wider landscape of the Puddletown Forest complex, of which Thorncombe LNR is adjoined too.  It is home to amphibians, including Great Crested newts, damselflies and dragonflies and a hunting ground for grass snakes. The pond is also a watering hole for conservation grazing stock on the reserve as well as resident and migratory non aquatic wildlife.

About the project

This project aims to compliment and improve the current management and community involvement of the LNR with a specific focus on developing RushyPond's biomass and protecting its importance in the wider landscape as a rich bank of species. With a better understanding of its hydrology, ecology and how its heritage legacy needs to be conserved, the future of the pond can be better protected

This project is funded by the Silverlake Conservation & Community fund and so far has completed an initial ecological and hydrological survey  training of volunteers in amphibian survey techniques, infrastructure such as fencing and an interpretation panel