Essex Wildlife Trust is one of the many organisations that partner together to form the Waterlife Recovery Trust. Recently, the Waterlife Recovery Trust has announced the results of a ground-breaking trial for water voles across East Anglia.

Unfortunately, mink is an invasive species that threatens the water vole population significantly. Until this trial, the eradication of American mink has been an “impossible dream” according to Chair of Waterlife Recovery Trust, Professor Tony Martin.

We are excited to see what this means for water vole populations in Essex, as we continue to work towards their recovery. 

Read more about the trial 

This January has marked the first seagrass survey of the year as part of our seagrass restoration work. Dwarf eelgrass, the species that we are focusing on, is being monitored and assessed at St Lawrence to find out more. Alongside this, we are monitoring seagrass transplants from a trial conducted last year, as a potential restoration method for this special species. Despite the freezing temperatures, it's great to visit the site and check up on our super seagrass.

Did you know, seagrass supports a whole host of marine species, including cuttlefish, seahorse and juvenile fish? 

We know that conservation is a collaborative effort. That’s why we are pleased to be working with landowners in Essex, to discuss ways in which wildlife and farming can work together. Across the county, farmers are coming together to support environmental improvements along river catchments.

Our Rivers Team attended their first meeting of the River Roding Farmer Cluster to talk about recovering ponds, alongside RSPB and the Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group.

Moving forward, we expect to see more farmer clusters forming and it will be a vital way to get our message across and help farmers to deliver conservation at scale. 

Our conservation projects would not be possible without your support. Become a member of Essex Wildlife Trust today, and help us make conservation happen. 

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