At Orchid Glade, after a wet winter and towards the end of the driest April on record, it is reassuring to see that the two new ponds are still brim full of water. The fringes of blanket-weed show that both have been higher, but clearly the heavy clay subsoil of this undrained reserve is very impermeable. Footprints of fallow deer around the margins of both water-bodies testify to their value to the wildlife that manages this reserve for SFPT and for natural history. Ultimately, we can hope that the fine sediment will settle, and the water will clear. A few phragmites reed seedlings were planted last year in the shallow pool. A small reed bed here will enhance the wildlife value of this reserve, which already shows great botanical variety within its 10+ acres.
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