Event Archive

'The Stream of LIFE' guided walk was held on 22nd May 2004 leaving from the Blackwater Car Park on Rhinefield Ornamental Drive

Before setting off walkers were given an introduction to the LIFE 3 project and the riverine restoration results which would be seen on the walk

Project staff lead 28 walkers from across the County along the restored stretches of the Blackwater, in Vinney Ridge inclosure, during the two hour walk.

Environment Agency Project Manager Maxine Elliott, guided walkers along the restored river meanders with the aid of annotated maps

Many visitors were returning to the area after attending the project launch in July 2003, to see the project's progress first hand.

There were opportunities throughout the morning to question the project staff on related project issues.

Visitors were impressed with the restoration of the riverine landscape. Many asked questions about survey equipment in the river, the use of woody debris structures, furture plans for the area, flood risk potential downstream and how the partnership intended to continue integrated management of the water course after the project ends >>see FAQ

Walkers took an approximate 2 km route through the restored riverine habitat, along the tributary of the Lymington River, looking at whats been achieved and what's still to be done in summer 2004.

Walkers viewed first hand the restored meanders in place of previously straightened channels which had damaged and drained the landscape and reduced ecological diversity.

Public information boards are provided at all sites the project partners are working in. These provide information on why the project is important to the New Forest's sustainability and what restoration works are taking place in the area. They also provide contact details for those visitors not on a guided walk!

Further events and guided walks along restoration sites are planned for the future. Visit our events page for updates