Work continues on the earthworks that form the ÒbonesÓ of the reedbed design. Many ditches are nearing their intended depths and the profiles are beginning to take shape. These are constructed by gently sloping the banks into the ditches, with shelves called 'berms'.

The water that was in the original ditch has been drained into the newly formed ditches, and further translocation of aquatic animals and plants has taken place. The remaining water was pumped into the new ditches late last week.

Construction of the viewing mound can now be seen. This will increase in height by a further two metres, which will give a spectacular raised view over the project design area.

At this crucial construction stage, the project design team continues to negotiate so that every possible tree can be accommodated. Much work has gone into this. We have so far negotiated for the retention of several large clumps of White Willow, White Poplar, and Hawthorn, from the original pegged out design area.
The transfer from an artist's idea to detailed plans to actual works on the ground is complex and always involves detailed final discussion that the LNR management committee has conducted with rigour and the works team with sensitivity. Even a relatively young ash tree will be moved instead of felled, so that it might have a chance of survival.

week five -->