News from Wicken Fen
Many of Wicken Fen's rare wetland plants will receive a potentially life
saving drink of water thanks to a new wind pump installed on the edge of Sedge
Fen. The fen has suffered from a lack of water in recent years which is having
a detrimental effect on the fen's delicate plant communities. The new wind
pump will lift calcium rich water from Monk's Lode onto the fen during the
winter months, which will gradually re-charge the fens watertable. It is
perhaps ironic that Wicken's historic wooden wind pump near the Visitor
Centre was once used to drain the land for peat cutting whilst its modern day
metal counterpart is being used to pump water back onto the land.
Plans are in hand to increase the range of activities and events on offer at Wicken Fen with the introduction of cycle hire this summer. We are currently working with local tourist attractions and hospitality businesses throughout the area to help promote cycling in and around communities bordering the Vision lands.
Local basket maker and weaver, Nadine Anderson will be hosting a series of her popular Willow Weaving Workshops in March and early April to help you spruce up your garden. Making Plant Supports (Sat 19 Mar and Fri 25 10am or 2pm £28) a half day workshop to make traditional willow plant supports for your garden; Willow Border Edges and Trellis Workshop (Sat 26 Mar 10am-4pm £55) Willow Birds (Sat 2 April 10am-4pm £55) Create a natural bird sculpture for in or outdoors.
Other forthcoming events include; Mucky Pups Springtime Art and Craft (Wed 16 March 1030 -12 noon £3.75) -a spring trail and arts and crafts for preschoolers; or enjoy a Spring Walk with the Warden as the fen bursts into life (Sun 20 Mar at 2pm £6.50- includes tea and slice of cake). Advance booking is strongly recommended for all events -Tel 01353 720274.
Hope to see you at the fen soon.