Gateway to the Stour Valley &
Haven of Nature.
D
July 2017
by Ildiko Scurr
Last year I set up a group on Facebook called Uplifting News because I wanted to create a space
where people could focus on filling their minds and hearts with the compassion, bravery, genius, talent,
social and globally conscious acts and achievements that are taking place every day. It took off incredi-
bly fast and people now regularly ask to join. One of the wonderful themes that emerged was how there
are so many people across our planet dedicating themselves to living an environmentally sustainable life
and that includes taking care of nature. Last year alone, in India over 1 weekend, the people banded
together and planted 1000,000 trees, yet I was not aware of it being reported on any orthodox news
channel. A passion kindled in me to find out how I could get involved locally in conservation and that
led me to Kingfisher Barn along our River Stour.
There is a 2 year long project called ‘Explore the Stour’ regeneration project, running activities and
events which raise awareness and understanding about the Stour Valley, its wildlife and cultural heritage,
amongst the local community and schools. The River Stour is an unconsidered and unknown gem which
even many locals are unaware of. The first time I went to visit it, I was stuck by the beauty and the diversi-
ty of wildlife. Dragonflies zip around the water, in sapphire and ruby streaks while copper, white and
russet coloured butterflies flap lazily along with you as you walk. The grass buzzes with all types of
insects and you might catch sight of a kingfisher diving into the stream, its azure blue feathers catching
the light for an instant. The river supports otters, voles and waterfowl including swans. On a hot summer
day I took my shoes off and felt the connection with Mother Earth as I walked through sun and shady
patches, intoxicated by the vivid green waterweed and trees around me. I felt all of my daily stresses
melt away with the song of the tiny birds trilling in the bushes. A truly magical place.
A week later I signed up as a volunteer with the Stour Valley Supporters and had my first day getting
mucky pulling up invasive weeds with a team of friendly, hardworking people. The next week we were
digging holes by the riverbank to make a solid foundation for some new tables and seats made out of
beautiful wood. My experience has been a deep satisfaction of giving back to Mother Earth and taking
on the role of Caretaker which is what our true relationship is with our planet. I can honour her through
this work and have fun, meet fascinating folk and immerse myself in the wildlife…what could be better!
I interviewed Sophie Arnold, Assistant Ranger for the Bournemouth Countryside Team and asked her
about her involvement with Kingfisher Barn.I love turning up once a week, finding out what work we
have lined up for the day and then getting stuck in to do my part to make sure this valuable and beautiful
land is kept healthy for generations to come.
www.bournemouth.gov.uk/Parks/FindParksGardens/Stourvalley.aspx
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