The Friends of Apex Park and Sedgemoor District Council have signed up to a new nationwide conservation project called ‘Back from the Brink’ that will see new arable plant species introduced at the Highbridge park by sowing seeds into one of the wildflower areas.
The countrywide project aims to save 20 species from extinction and benefit over 200 more through 19 projects that span England; from the tip of Cornwall to Northumberland.
It is the first time ever that so many conservation organisations have come together with one focus in mind – to bring back from the brink of extinction some of England’s most threatened species of animal, plant and fungi.
The project running at Apex Park under the programme is called ‘Colour in the Margins’ which involves reintroducing arable plant species by sowing seeds into one of the wildflower areas at Apex Park.
Zoe Morrall, Colour in the Margins Outreach Officer said: “Arable farmland (land that has been cultivated or prepared for growing crops) is vital for the wildflowers and animals that have co-existed with us since the dawn of agriculture.”
“Arable plants, such as the Corn buttercup and Red Hemp-nettle, have been affected by changes in agricultural land use such as the increased use of herbicides and fertilisers, development pressures and changes in agricultural farming practices. By working collaboratively with farmers and land owners and increasing awareness of this fabulous suite of plants to people of all ages, we can bring back the colour to our arable margins.”
It comes as The Friends of Apex Park are inviting members of the public to join them and pupils from Churchfield Primary School in helping to plant bulbs and sow seeds.
The planting session will be held on Wednesday 6th November from 10am-12pm and any volunteers should meet at 9:45am at the Apex Park Office just inside the entrance of the car park.
People are recommended to wear suitable clothing/footwear for the weather forecasted and to bring a drink (plus a spade and bucket if you have one!). Children should be supervised by a responsible adult. If the weather forecast is particularly bad, there will be a notice displayed at http://friendsofapexpark.webeden.co.uk/
