For each compartment, the following information is given:

• Approximate total area
• Area covered by each major vegetation type
• Description and notes
• Present management
• Possible future developments
• Possible future management

A3.1 Verrall's Fen (Compartments 01 - 05) Fig. 3

Access to this part of the Fen was improved in May 1990 by the construction of new bridges over Cross Dyke, and a new point of entry off Spinney Bank on the eastern side of Drainers' Dyke. This latter obviates the need to take tractors and other machinery across the Sedge Fen in wet conditions.

01

Area: 10.9 ha.

All carr; no droves or paths.
Description:

Remote, inaccessible, except on foot. Carr badly wind- thrown 1974-5. Dug for peat in the past. Now largely under permanent water since waterproofing of Howe's Bank in mid-1980s.

Present Management:


None.

Development:


Its remoteness, and previous peat digging, makes this a possible site for large-scale peat-digging if this was ever started.

A botanical survey is desirable.

Recommended management:

1. Howes Dyke - 450 m in this sector - is the responsibility of the NRA as a 'main river' flood bank. Mechanical maintenance as required though co-operation between NT and NRA.

2. New Dyke - 8-year cycle; spoil on east side (see A4.2.6)

02

Area: 17.3 ha

Carr: 15.5 ha; Sedge/Litter 1.8 ha.

Description:


Mainly carr. Open area cleared early 1970s; cut 1976. Burned off 8 April 1981; encroaching scrub cleared late May- early July. In mid-May 1982 field dry; swiped. Some further clearance on the north side in July-August 1982. No subsequent management. Large population of Fen Violet (Viola persicifolia) found in 1982. The species is now almost confined to the edges of the northern path through the block. A wider path would allow easier access for those wishing to see the violet and might easily also provide a habitat for it.

Management guidelines agreed by Committee in 1984; one third of field to be cut each year. No cutting in 1984 or 1985, mainly because of flooding from New Dyke. Most of the field is now flooded.

Scrub and tree growth has obscured all but about 0.5 ha in a rectangular area running perpendicular from Malcarse Drain. The open area has been cut and cleared regularly in the autumn.

A new winding path was cleared in summer/autumn 1991 to open a return route from Malcarse Drain to New Dyke and back via Wicken Lode. A new bridge linking Cpts 02 and 05, which is designed to bear tractor powered machinery, was built in 1990.

Present Management:


None since 1982 apart from Miss Morgan's experimental plots, and surrounding droves.

Development:


Cut and clear around present field to approximately double its size. The Species Recovery Programme (English Nature) will be carrying out experimental work on the Viola population in 1993-4.

Recommended Management:
(Subject to consultation with English Nature Species Recovery Project team)

1. Adopt the recommended three-year rotation for specific management of Viola persicifolia (Section A4.2.1.6).

2. Monitor fen violet populations (now confined to path edges), and modify management according to results from Miss Morgan's experiments. It is possible that drastic disturbance (digging, rotovating) may have to be considered to maintain the violet populations.

3. New path to be treated as level 2 with fringe vegetation cut and cleared in Sept/October.

4. 1340 m. of edge droves ; Level 2 management. 450 m. of drove along New Dyke - level 2 for last five years, but wetness of site and slubbing operations have made this difficult in 1992.

5. Malcarse Drain - 12-year cycle; spoil on W side (see A.4.2.6)

03

Area : 5.5 ha

Carr: c. 2 ha; Litter/Sedge: c. 3 ha

Description:


The open area was burned in 1980. The northern part of the open area was cut for sedge in early summer 1984 and 1989 and the entire area in 1992.

North Dyke was cleared along its whole length but remained only as a depression in the ground until completely re-excavated in December 1991 (see A4.2.6). Although it is effectively a separate water-body, it is linked at the surface to Howe's Dyke and can be linked to Cross Dyke via a pipe.

It is not now possible to walk along the entire bank of Howe's Bank in this compartment because of a combination of high water levels and the decision not to grade down the spoil from the 1991 slubbing.

Present Management:
Development:


Open up return route from Malcarse Drain to North Dyke via Howe's Bank, using voluntary labour, in 1992/93.

Recommended Management:

1. North end of open space to be managed as a sedge field, with cutting in 1992, 1995 and 1998 (3 yr.rotation; A4.2.2).

2. Extreme south end to be managed as a Molinia-rich litter field by dividing in half and giving biennial autumn cut to the halves in turn (western part, 03a, to be cut in odd years; eastern part, 03b, in even years) - see A4.2.1.3

3. Edge droves: 1020 m; Level 2 management. Path from Cross Dyke bridge to Malcarse Drain bridge; Level 2.

4. North Dyke - to be left to undergo succession to dryness. Spoil on S side to be levelled, but only away from the water's edge, to allow reinstatement of the return route via Howe's and Malcarse Drains.

04

Area: 22.4 ha

Carr: 21.1 ha; Open areas: 1.3 ha

Description:


The largest compartment on the reserve, mainly carr- covered. The southern end of the carr is rich in calcifuge bryophytes and is dry with much bramble and rose under sparse dead carr with some birch. The bryophytes are now in decline probably because of increased competition resulting from the opening of the canopy following the die-back of Frangula.

At the northern end there is an open area with scattered bush clumps. This was the nesting site of Montagu's Harriers in the 1950s and is still sometimes known as the Harrier Reserve. It was burned and bushed out in 1981. A pair of Marsh Harriers nested successfully in the NE corner in 1991 and returned in 1992. This area is now permanently flooded after the waterproofing of Howe's Bank; most of the bushes and trees have been killed and much of the area is occupied by reed.

Following the accidental destruction of the bridge linking Cpts 04 and 05, and the subsequent recovery of machinery, the peat surface was considerably disrupted at the junction of Cross Dyke and Drainers' Dyke and a deep hole was formed.

Present Management:


The small patch beside Drainers' Dyke was cleared in 1981. It was first cut in May 1984 and again in 1987, 1989 and 1991. It contains a good deal of sedge and should be cut every three years in the spring in case it is capable of developing a commercial crop. Peucedanum palustre seeds have been scattered here and many plants are now established and themselves producing seed.

An unintentional fire following the 1991 spring cutting removed the ground vegetation over most of the southern two- thirds of the clearing. This enabled further clearance and the patch was increased substantially in size.

Development:

1. Close off end of Cross Dyke by means of an earth bank capable of taking tractor-powered machinery (so linking Cpts 04 and 05). This bank should enclose a pipe to give controlled water movement between Drainers' Dyke and Cross Dyke.

2. Clear return route through carr linking North Dyke to Drainers' Dyke approximately along the line of the old ditch to the north of the small sedge patch.

3. Level and consolidate the area surrounding the new pond. Otherwise, leave this water-body to be developed for freshwater research (consult Dr. Friday).

Future Management:

1. Small open patch to be cut every three years in May (1993, 1996, 1999, A4.2.2). Carry off material; tie up sedge for sale.

2. Larger area to be cut on a biennial summer pattern following first cut in 1992 (see A4.2.1.2).

3. Leave the spoil along North Dyke unlevelled for the duration of research project ending 1994 (consult Mr. Painter).

4. Marginal droves. 1560 m. Level 2 management. Access may be difficult in wet years. Path along Cross Dyke. 300 m. Level 2.

5. For North Dyke, see Cpt 03; Cross Dyke, see 05; Drainers Dyke, see 12.

05

Area: 13.0 ha

Carr: 11.4 ha; Sedge: 1.5 ha; Litter: 1.1 ha

Description:


A mixed compartment. Barnes' Mere is a relic of former peat cutting in the late 1930s. Of the open area, part is managed as litter and the rest as sedge. A strip of carr about 20 metres wide next to Cross Dyke was accidentally burned in 1980.

Present Management:


Sedge cut in 1985 and 1990. Litter area cut in summer 1984 and biennially since. Droves cut annually except for more frequent cutting of path along Cross Dyke.

Development: None.

Future Management:

1. Sedge to be cut on 3-year rotation. Next cuts therefore in 1993, 1996, 1999 (A4.2.2).

2. Treat part of sedge area for Peucedanum by dividing the western-most part into four strips and cut one in turn every year in early May from 1993 (A4.2.3).

3. Litter - biennial summer cut in even years (A4.2.1.2).

4. Drove by Cross Dyke - Level 2 management. Marginal droves - Level 2.

5. Cross Dyke - 8-year cycle; spoil on N side (see A4.2.6).

6. Barnes' Mere - no mangement plan exists for this at present;
in view of the data emerging from Mr. Painter's study on the old ditch fauna, it is probably best left undisturbed for the time being.

A3.2 The Sedge Fen (Compartments 10 - 19) Fig. 4

10

Area: 12.3 ha

Carr: 11.4 ha; Litter: 0.9 ha.

Description:


A large block, mainly covered in carr. There are two patches of litter, both small, and in addition there is the site of Godwin's experiments on the role of cutting interval in determining the composition of the fen vegetation - the 'Godwin Plots'. There is also a small pond off Drainers' Dyke - the 'Experimental Pond' - which was dug in the 1920s.

In the south-west corner there is woodland, derived from planted birches and alders; many of the birches are now dead or moribund. Here there is also the largest and best known patch of bog myrtle (Myrica gale) on the fen; there is another small patch of Myrica just to the south of the Godwin Plots. In 1992, systematic monitoring of the Myrica population here and in Cpt 12 began.

A strip in the centre of the block is not owned by the Trust.

Present Management:


The block is bounded on two sides by the nature trail which is cut several times each year; the other droves are cut less frequently.

The Godwin Plots had not been cut for some years but a new scheme of management was implemented in 1985: all four plots were cut in winter 1985/86 to begin a 12-year cycle.

Of the litter patches, that by Sedge Fen Drove was cut in 1985; the other was not. A short length of ditch was dug in the summer of 1985 and a glade cleared among the birch woodland.

In the 1980s, a number of small litter patches were created by carr clearance adjacent to Spinney Bank pathway. Of the six within Cpt 10, two are cut each spring, two in summer and two in autumn. Peucedanum seed was scattered here and the spring and autumn-cut areas now have a number of Peucedanum plants growing in them.

On the westernmost path linking Sedge Fen Drove to Spinney Bank, at the opposite end from the small autumn-cut litter field, a small field was created in the mid-1980s. This is cut on a two in three year pattern in autumn.

Spinney Bank has been strengthened and waterproofed (1989), and slubbed out again in late 1991.

Development:

1. An explanatory notice to be placed by the Godwin Plots, and the plots to be included in future trail guides.

2. The Experimental Pond to be slubbed out.

Future Management:

1. Litter patch by Drainers' is to be divided into two. Cut northern half biennially, in even years, in spring (A4.2.1.1) and southern half biennially, in even years, in summer (A4.2.1.2).

2. The Spinney Bank litter bays to be given annual spring, summer and autumn cuts (see A4.2.1.1-3)

3. Litter patch by Sedge Fen Drove to be given annual autumn cut (A4.2.1.3) and that at other end of the path to Spinney Bank to be cut two years in three (A4.2.1.3).

4. Godwin Plots are to be managed according to the plan agreed in 1985, with autumn/winter cutting (A4.2.1.5). The recently reopened pathway alongside the Plots is to be treated as other visitor routes.

5. Myrica patch: cut back encroaching shrubs in early spring, as necessary. Continue monitoring programme.

6. Glade: cut annually in autumn.

7. Eastern boundary path - Level 2 management.

8. Drove along Drainers' Dyke - Level 1; drove along Spinney Bank - Level 1 (parts of Nature Trail).

9. Sedge Fen Drove - modified Level 2 management (A2.3)

10. Ditches along Sedge Fen Drove - leave unexcavated pending further research (consult Mr. Painter).

11

Area: 3.1 ha

Carr: 2.4 ha; Litter: 0.7 ha

Description:


A small block. Its main point of interest is that it includes the largest colony of Greater Spearwort (Ranunculus lingua) on the Fen. This lies between the litter patch and Sedge Fen Drove. Another very small annually cut litter patch was opened up in 1990, close to the extreme northern corner; it is cut and cleared in the autumn.

Along the north-eastern boundary there is a row of Salix pentandra trees, planted probably in the 1920s, and which now includes the two largest known specimens in Britain. In the north-east corner there is a patch of aspens (Populus tremula), many of which are moribund.

The Spinney Bank boundary ditch (87b-d) was completely re- excavated as part of the waterproofing of this part of the Fen in 1989 and was then slubbed in late 1991.

Present Management:


The litter patch is cut in two out of three years in autumn. The track on the eastern and northern side is part of the nature trail and is cut regularly. Salix pentandra trees are cut back if they appear dangerous. The ditch at the north- eastern end was dug in November 1983 and roded in 1985 and has subsequently been brinked on a two-year cycle, with half of each side done each year.

Development:


The Salix pentandra trees, although introduced, should be preserved. They should be pollarded over a number of years (see Section A4.3) by removing one or two large branches at a time. This should rejuvenate them but not reduce their interest.

The north-east ditch (78g) should be cleared out and widened. The spoil should be put on the far bank, where the path can then be abandoned. Pollarding of the Salix pentandra would reduce the rate of infilling of this ditch.

Future Management:

1. The main litter field to be cut in autumn in two years in three (92/93/95/96/98 - see A4.2.1.3).

2. The litter patch to be cut annually in autumn.

3. Path on north and east sides - Level 1 management.

4. Path on west side - Level 2 management.

5. Sedge Fen Drove - modified Level 2 management (A2.3).

6. North-east ditch (78g) - liable to fill quickly because of high leaf deposition rate. Slub out by hand every six years (A4.2.6).

7. Experimental pollarding of Salix pentandra.

12

Area 3.9 ha

Litter 2.4 ha; Carr 1.4 ha

Description:


A fairly small block. At the north west corner there is a square area of Molinia-dominated litter which has probably never been covered by carr. The litter field contains a number of small patches of sedge which deserve encouragement. Some of the carr near Sedge Fen Drove is rich in calcifuge bryophytes. Contains two clumps of Myrica gale, which are being monitored (see Cpt. 10).

Present Management:


The sedge patches are cut on a 3- or 4-year rotation, depending on when the rest of the field is due for cutting, and are next due in 1992, 1996 and 1999. The litter is cut in summer two years in three (A4.2.1.2); next cuts 1992, 1993. The area of Molinia has been cut annually since 1978.

Development:


Some lengths of the old ditch line parallel to Sedge Fen Drove (90b) which have dried out completely and are adjacent to carr may be re-excavated, with the spoil deposited against the carr edge. Lengths adjacent to open areas and any lengths of ditch retaining water through most of the year are to be left as 'old ditch' habitat. Mr. Painter must be consulted before any excavation takes place.

Future Management:

1. The Molinia patch (about 0.45 ha) should be cut every year in autumn (A4.2.1.3).

2. The rest of the field should be cut two years in three in summer (92/93/95/96/98; see A4.2.2). Patches of sedge should be avoided and a buffer strip 2 m wide left round them cut when the sedge clumps are cut.

3. The sedge patches are due to be cut in 1992, 1996 and 1999.

4. Drove by Drainers' Dyke - Level 1 management. Other droves - Level 2 management.

5. Drainers' Dyke - 4-year cycle; spoil on W side (see A4.2.6).
Provide a control over the link between Gardiner's Dyke and Drainer's Dyke. Water should be let in only if the former Dyke is in danger of drying out. (see A2.9, A6.7, C3.6.6).

13

Area 6.3 ha

Carr 4.0 ha; Sedge 0.5 ha; Litter 1.8 ha

Description:


A mixed block, without any striking points of interest.

Present Management:


The whole area was cut in September 1985, including the sedge patches, and was also cut in 1983 and 1981. A small square of litter in the north-east corner has been cut in spring in odd-numbered years, but the cut was delayed until July in 1985.

Development:
1. There is sedge in the carr near the existing sedge patches near Verrall's Drove. The extent of this should be investigated and the area considered to have high priority for carr clearance.
2. Some lengths of the old ditch parallel to Sedge Fen Drove may be excavated subject to consultation with Mr. Painter (see Cpt 12).
3. Small pond (92) to be site of Fen Ragwort reintroduction (English Nature Species Recovery Programme). Consult Mr. Wells (see A5.3.4).

Future Management:

1. Sedge areas to be cut every three years; next cuts 1993, 1996, 1999 (A4.2.2). The cut should be as early as possible after litter harvest.

2. Litter patch in north-east corner to be cut in spring, two years in three (92/93/95/96/98/99; see A4.2.1.1).

3. Other litter areas to be cut in summer in odd-numbered years (see A4.2.1.2).

4. All droves receive Level 2 management.

14

Area: 9.6 ha

Carr: 5.6 ha; Litter: 4.0 ha

Description:


A fairly large block. No outstanding features.

Present Management:


The main part of the field was cut in 1980, 83, 85 and biennially since. The intention has been to work it simultaneously with Cpt 13 for convenience and to give extensive vistas. There are sedge-rich patches; these were salvaged in 1985. The patch at the north-west corner by Sedge Fen Drove has been cut in spring alternately with the patch in Cpt 13, but is now cut two years in three, out of phase with Cpt 13.

Development:

1. A Cladium and Peucedanum-rich patch in the middle of the field, which is now overgrown with scrub, should be cleared and managed for Peucedanum and Swallowtail butterflies. If cleared during 1992/93 and fully bushed out, half of the patch could be cut in May in 1995 and 1997, the other in 1997 and 2001 (A4.2.3)

2. Carr patches should be checked for quantity of sedge and clearance considered if sedge present in any quantity.

3. Possible re-excavation of parts of the old ditch along Sedge Fen Drove (see Cpt 12 above).

Future Management:

1. Other sedge-rich patch to be cut on 3-year cycle, beginning in 1994.

2. Main litter field to be cut in summer in odd-numbered years (see A4.2.1.2). Sedge patches to be marked, avoided and cut on a three-year cycle; next cut 1994, 1997.

3. North-western corner to be cut in spring, two years in three (93/94/96/97/99; see A4.2.1.1).

4. Sedge Fen Drove - modified Level 2 management. All other droves - Level 2.

15

Area: 6.6 ha

Carr: 5.4 ha; Sedge/Litter: 1.1 ha

Description:


This block includes the strip which is under the control of the Parish Council, and not owned by the Trust. Otherwise it consists of a rather overgrown sedge field, which is rich in Peucedanum, and carr. The carr near the Brickpits contains oak and ash trees (some dying) and was the site where calcifuge bryophytes were first found on the Fen. Most have now disappeared from this area.

A spur of the boardwalk leads to a hide adapted for wheelchair users and overlooking a clearing and small pond. This pond was created by a controlled explosion in 1988 and subsequently extended by work-parties; its main value is for Odonata. The surrounding litter is cut annually, with the pond half cut in spring and the rest in summer.

Present Management:


The sedge was last cut in 1978; it should have been cut in 1982 but conditions were too wet and the cut was delayed till 1984. Milk parsley (Peucedanum palustre) is abundant and has flowered profusely in recent years; this is the main source of seed that has been scattered elsewhere on the Fen. The far end of the sedge strip peters out into litter.

Development:

1. The parish strip is one of the few places on the Fen which is rich in sedge, not unduly overgrown by carr, and uncropped. A scheme whereby the Trust could take on the responsibility of clearing and maintaining this strip as necessary has been agreed with the Parish Council, but has not yet been implemented. A controlled burn and thorough stumping out and cutting back is likely to be needed.

2. The Windpump Ditch (78d) should be cleared in sections and brought into an 8-year rotation, as described in A4.2.6.1

Future Management:

1. The Cladium/Peucedanum-rich area is to be managed for Peucedanum: the southern half was cut completely and cleared in early May 1992 and the rest should be treated similarly in May 1993. Thereafter, the area should be divided into four blocks (A-D) of equal area and one cut in turn each year (see A4.2.3). Some sedge might be salvaged from this operation.

2. The litter end of the field is to be cut in the early spring of even-numbered years (A4.2.1.1). Sedge and Peucedanum should be monitored and the regime modified if they appear to be colonising the litter.

3. Continue to clear as described above.

4. Dead trees to be left as insect and bird habitat unless they pose a danger to the boardwalk.

5. Path beside Windpump Ditch - Level 1 management. All other droves, and the path beside the parish strip - Level 2.

7. Windpump Ditch - see 19.

16

Area: 2.7 ha

Carr: 1.6 ha Litter: 1.1 ha

Description:


A very small block including the Tower Hide. The carr here has suffered particularly badly from fungal disease. As a result of disease, and the considerable amount of clearance that has been achieved since 1983, this area has been altered substantially in the last decade.

The block includes the Godwin Triangle, a small area enclosed by Wicken Lode, Drainer's Dyke and the drove. This was mapped by Godwin (1936) and again by Clowes & Huntley in 1973 (Godwin, Clowes & Huntley 1974), and is of some interest in that it demonstrates the way in which carr develops. It should be left undisturbed.

Present Management:


Carr clearance is now complete. The newly-created litter areas are cut biennially in the spring.

Development:


None foreseen.

Future Management:

1. The most recently cleared half of the litter area (behind the Tower Hide) will be cut in spring 1992 and thereafter in the spring in even years (A4.2.1.1).

2. The other half of the litter area nearest Drainers' Dyke will be cut in the spring of odd years (A4.2.1.1).

3. Sedge is to be monitored, and where it appears to be increasing, a change of management to a sedge field regime should be considered; in the meantime, patches can be left and cut every 4 years.

4. A notice explaining the significance of the Godwin Triangle should be displayed and referred to in future trail guides.

5. Droves by Drainer's Dyke and Wicken Lode - Level 1. Other droves - Level 2.

6. Gardiner's Ditch - see Cpt 18.

17

Area: 2.7 ha

All Sedge

Description:


A small block, almost entirely managed as a sedge field. There is a narrow strip of carr along Wicken Lode and two small patches adjacent to Gardiner's Drove. The sedge was last cut in 1989.

The path along the Lode to the Tower Hide is very heavily used by visitors and is showing signs of severe wear and tear. An alternative route, running close to and within the edge of the carr, was created in late 1991. This is managed in the same way as the main drove nearby.

Present Management:


The sedge field was cut in 1991 and is next due in 1994. The carr is faced up vigorously when the sedge is cut.

Development:


It may be necessary to cut the eastern end of the field (which is poor in sedge) more frequently, to reduce scrub invasion.

Future Management:

1. The sedge is cut on a 3-year cycle and is next due in 1994 and 1997. Harvesting should start at the worst (eastern) end.

2. Carr is to be faced up when sedge is harvested.

3. Drove by Wicken Lode - Level 1 management. Other droves, including new path by Wicken Lode - Level 2.

4. Gardiner's Ditch - see Cpt 18.

18

Area: 7.6 ha

Carr: 2.4 ha; Sedge: 1.1 ha; Litter: 4.0 ha

Description:


A large and rather diverse block with several patches of carr and a central block of sedge in a litter field. Some Peucedanum palustre is present throughout.

Present Management:


The sedge was cut in 1984 and 1988, and in part in 1991. Most of the rest of the field was also cut in that year. As a rule, the field has been cut every two years (evens).

Development:
1. The sedge should be monitored, and if development into a sedge field looks a practical proposition over a larger area of the field, then a management change must be considered.


2. The north-east rectangle will be cut in spring as described below, to give interest from the boardwalk. This same area is also the site of renewed turf digging.

3. An alternative path along the Lode, like that in Cpt 17, may be desirable.

Future Management:

1. Sedge patch to be cut every three years: 1992 (part), 1995 (all), and 1998 (all) (A4.2.2).

2. Small litter area in north-east corner to be divided into two; one half to be cut in spring of each year, the western, 18a, in odd years and the eastern, 18b, in even years (A4.2.1.1) and any harvestable sedge salvaged.

3. Small patches adjacent to Wicken Lode to be cut in alternate summers; (the western, 18c, in even years; the eastern, 18d, in odd years; see A4.2.1.2).

4. The rest of the litter areas to be cut in even-numbered years in summer (A4.2.1.2).

5. Turf digging to be continued in north-east corner. (see A2.8 and A4.2.7)

6. Lode-bank drove - Level 1 management. Other droves - Level 2.

7. Gardiner's Ditch - 12-year cycle; spoil on N side (A4.2.6)

19

Area: 6.7 ha

Carr: 2.4 ha; Litter: 4.2 ha

Description:


A fairly large block, close to the Fen entrance and the William Thorpe building. It is important because it is the first part of the Fen that most visitors see. A line of experimental peat diggings close to the eastern edge previously gave management problems but have now been filled in as new peat diggings have started.

Present Management:


Cutting was rather irregular before 1984, but during 1978- 1980 all of the area was cut at least once, and some of it twice. Between l981 and 1983 almost all was cut twice.

In 1984 a large-scale experiment was started in which the whole large litter area was divided into strips. From south to north, these are:

1. Cut in odd-numbered years.

2. Cut every year.

3. Cut in even-numbered years.

4. Cut two years in three (92/94/95/97/98).

(No.4 is nearest the windpump; see Fig. 4).

Cutting in 1984 was in the autumn and in 1985 in September. It has since been done in July, and the resulting crop baled up as hay.

A small area in the north-west corner is cut in spring in odd-numbered years.

Development:


The western halves of strips 3 and 4 should be separated off and managed for Peucedanum. This creates a square area which can be further subdivided into quarters (see Fig. 4); opposite quarters would be cut together in the autumn, after the Peucedanum has set seed, in 1992/94/96/98, and the other quarters in the other years, in 1993/95/97/99. These squares would provide an interesting contrast to the rest of the Peucedanum areas, which are cut in spring.

Future Management:

1. Continue the management of the main litter area as detailed above, with the modification for the encouragement of Peucedanum (A4.2.3).

2. A semi-quantitative survey of the plant species composition of the different blocks should be carried out every 2 years.

3. The small area in the north-west corner should be cut in spring in odd-numbered years (A4.2.1.1).

4. Droves by Wicken Lode and the Windpump Ditch - Level 1. Other droves - Level 2.

5. Windpump Ditch - 8-year cycle; spoil on north bank (A3.2.6).

6. Gardiner's Ditch - see Cpt 18.

7. Thomson's Ditch - to be allowed to undergo succession to dryness (A4.2.6)

A3.3. Little Breed Fen (Compartments 20, 21, 22, 68, 69, and including the Brickpits and brick kiln)

Fig. 5

The three northern compartments (20, 21, 68) are sometimes collectively known as Gallop's Pieces.

20

Area: 1.1 ha

Litter with some mature carr around the edges.

Description:


This litter field has been cut annually in recent years. It dries slowly because it is isolated from the fen by a clay bank and cannot drain. The carr is mainly hawthorn and blackthorn.

Present management:


The litter is usually cut in summer and baled for hay if at all possible; this treatment should continue. If not baled, the cut should be carried off.

The ditch separating this from Cpt. 21 (78h) was heavily overgrown but was cleared in autumn 1985. It fills rapidly with leaves and vegetation, which has been tackled by some rotational roding.

Development:
Deepening and widening of western boundary ditch 78g in 1992 and its incorporation into an 8-year slubbing rotation (A4.2.6).

Future Management
As above. (Development)

21

'North Field'

Area: 1.5 ha.

Scrub, with glades

Description:


The southern end of this field was cultivated as arable until just after the last war (see aerial photos in William Thorpe Building). The northern end was also cultivated, but abandoned some years earlier and the scrub here is much more mature. A concerted effort was made in the mid-1980s to clear totally the more open patches of scrub. As a result, the whole area is now a mosaic of rough grass and herbs, with Adder's Tongue fern (Ophioglossum vulgare) and patches of scrub in which hawthorn, sallow and Frangula are predominant. Occasional young oaks indicate possibilities of further succession. The area is rich in birds and butterflies. Bee orchids (Ophrys apifera) were discovered growing there in 1991; a survey in 1992 revealed over 400 plants.

Present management:


The paths are cut 2-3 times each summer with a hand-powered rotary mower, and the rest of the herbaceous vegetation is cut in the autumn and the material removed.

The willow scrub at the far end is coppiced occasionally. This should continue. Some intermittent clearing back of the edges of scrub patches will probably be needed.

A second butterfly transect route, covering this area, was started in 1991.

Development:


In early 1992, some of the remaining patches of maturing scrub were reduced in height to reduce shading; this should be extended to the remaining areas.

Future Management
As above.

22

Area: 2.4 ha

Litter

Description:


This grassy field has gone under various names, among which are Milner-White's, North Breed and Breed Fen. It is a species-rich field, with at least 20 grass species and many associated plants including the rare Marsh Dandelion (Taraxacum palustre). The field is wet at times and formerly was frequently flooded.

Present management:


This field has been cut annually, in or about July, for many years and this treatment should continue. The timing of cutting is difficult; if it is cut to produce a useful hay then the cut should be in July or even earlier in a good year. This should allow at least some species to flower again later in the year and maintain the interest of the field for butterflies. In planning, account should also be taken of the results of experiments to investigate the effects of management on the Marsh Dandelion, and of the possibility of using the field as a site for the re-introduction of the Marsh Fritillary butterfly.

A narrow path along the north-east edge of the field is regularly flailed to give access to the area around the brick kiln.

The area close to the Ganges Hut is kept short as a recreation area for occupants of the base camp.

Development:


The small population of Marsh Dandelion should be given high priority in the monitoring programme. The plants should be surveyed in 1992 and, if possible, some of them should be caged to prevent damage by herbivores. Their progress should be monitored at different times of year.

Future Management
As at present. The narrow path to be managed as Level 2.

68

Area: 2.7 ha.

Planted trees with glades

Description:


This was an arable field, let on a normal agricultural tenancy, until after the 1986 harvest. It was planted with native tree species in east-west orientated sinuous blocks separated by wide potential rides in November 1989. In the intervening years, growth was topped in mid-summer.

Present management:


The planting and maintenance is under contract, which ends in 1992. The sinuous rides around the outside and between the three planted blocks have been flailed several times each season, as necessary. The new butterfly transect also covers this area.

Development:


The width of the flailed rides should be reduced and the centres demarcated by cutting. In the autumn, alternated sides of the rides should be cut and the material removed to promote floral diversity. Growth-promoting tubes and supports should be removed from the trees as they become redundant.

Future Management


As above (Development).

69

Area: 0.7 ha.

Litter

Description:


This field was abandoned in 1984 and has since been cut in autumn each year and the material removed. The vegetation is of some interest, with vigorous Oenanthe lachanalii and an increasing diversity and quantity of other typical fen species colonising.

The field is used as a dump for dead wood, etc., and there is a stack of bog oaks which is included as a point of interest on the nature trail.

Present management:


The field is cut annually in September or October.

Development:


Two courses of future management would seem possible:
i) annual cutting could continue, in the hope of encouraging

the development of a species-rich meadow as in Cpt.22 (see

above). If this is done, it will probably be necessary to

control ragwort invasion, by cutting before the plants have

set seed in autumn.
ii) all cutting could cease and the field be allowed to develop

into woodland. It is almost surrounded by trees, so seed

parents are not a problem.

The former is preferable, as cutting is not time consuming, but a Committee decision is needed.

The Brickpits

Description:


A group of six ponds, some of them occupying the former clay pits. These are surrounded by woodland and scrub which includes apple trees and in which the ruins of the old brick kiln are found. A hide, which is adapted for use by wheelchair- bound visitors, has been constructed overlooking the main Brickpit (76a). The hide is part of the Nature Trail.

Present management:


Management here in recent years has been minimal. There has been some scrub clearance, mainly done in hard winters when the opportunity arises to go onto thick ice and and cut away overhanging branches. This was carried out early in 1986. The spread of reed into the main brickpits is very slow, but, in the small shallow ponds 76a, b, c & d is very rapid. According to Mr. Barnes, the pits were roded in the past; these can be roded but slubbing will be necessary at intervals (A2.7).

The ponds are of great interest to hydrobiologists and no new management, including transfer of water or organisms, into or even between the ponds, should be carried out without first consulting the Secretary.

Development:

1. At least one of the pits (78a/78b) is very overgrown and should be cleared from one side.

2. The old brick kiln should be made safe and possibly restored (see C6.1.3)

A3.4 St. Edmund's Fen (Compartments 31 - 34)

the Education Area (Cpt 30);
Wicken Poor's Fen (Cpt 35)
Fig. 6

30

The Education Area
Area: c. 4 ha.

Litter; brambles and scrub; education area with ponds.

Description:


This is partly a litter field; the rest was let for horticulture until the mid 1980s, but has since been added to the litter-cutting programme.

In the northern arm (nearest the car park,) some paths have been cut and the brambles cut back in places. A small strip of litter/hay has been cleared; at present, this is cut annually in summer. This area is used by the Ringing Group.

There are large willows on the northern and southern boundaries. Those on the north side were pollarded in 1990??. Those on the south have been made safe according to N.T. policy by the removal of overhanging branches.

Most of this field has, since 1984, been set aside for use by school parties. To this end, a pool with water of graduated depth to demonstrate the hydrosere, and an elongate pool with wooden platforms for pond-dipping were excavated in 1986. Three further pond-dipping ponds of similar design to the first, but linked to the Lode and to each other by pipes, were dug in 1991.

A grid of paths has been established, to give access to the study areas, without causing widespread trampling; these should be mown regularly.

The litter is cut annually in July/August. Most of the cut material is baled as hay, but some is added to existing heaps to be investigated by education groups. The higher water table resulting from joining the southern ditch to Wicken Lode will encourage typical fen species in the westernmost litter field.

The small triangular area and the ditch at the north- eastern end are also now used for education. The plot is cut annually in autumn.

The western boundary of the Education Area, at its entrance from Wicken Lode, has been fenced and gated. The Education area is used as a route to St. Edmund's Fen and there have been problems of fouling by visitors' dogs; firm notices at either end of the route appear to have solved the problem.

The Education Warden has prepared resource leaflets for use by pupils and teachers in the education area; these include: pond-dipping, litter animals, and fen flora.

Development:

1. A series of small ponds, to demonstrate temporal succession, could be dug.

2. A wet-weather shelter for visiting school parties is to be constructed in 1993, using traditional materials.

3. The future of the northern arm should be discussed; it is presently largely overgrown and could perhaps be allowed to develop into a woodland, or cleared and mown to give a drier part of the field for children to contrast with the lower, wetter part; or the existing litter strip could be subdivided and subjected to different cutting regimes.

Future management:

1. The willows on the southern boundary should be pollarded, one at a time, over a number of years, in order to preserve them and to avoid danger to visiting children. However, these trees are important habitat for Diptera and form part of the Ringing Group's study area; all work on the trees must be done in consultation with the Zoological Secretary and a representative of the Ringing Group.

2. The demonstration hydrosere should be planted appropriately, if necessary.

3. All ponds and dykes should be maintained as necessary. The ditch at the eastern edge should be brinked on both sides (to allow access) and roded as necessary; it will need to be slubbed out occasionally.

31- 34

Area: c. 22 ha.

Woodland and scrub.

Description


The area was formerly rather dry and at least some of the plants in the ground flora were characteristic of damp woods rather than fen (e.g. Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum), Enchanter's Nightshade (Circaea lutetiana) and various ferns). In 1983, a bank constructed outside the fen impeded drainage from it and flooding has recently been severe and prolonged, leading to the death of many of the shrubs and trees, particularly in the north-eastern quarter. The flora of the area was surveyed in 1972 by Dr. J.M. Lock (see Bibliography, C9.4).

The majority of this area has for many years been regarded as peripheral to the Sedge Fen and visitors have not been encouraged. The Wicken Fen Ringing Group has used the area extensively for their population studies, and would view unfavourably any development which would increase disturbance. The route through Cpt 30 into St. Edmund's Fen is used by walkers and their dogs.

One strip is not owned by the Trust. In an earlier survey (Lock 1972), one strip was found still to be rich in sedge; the present state is unknown.

A further small section at the eastern end (Cpt. 33) is not owned by the Trust and is not managed. The boundary between this and the National Trust land was opened up in late 1991 and has subsequently been maintained as if a drove.

Present management:


The aims of management here are to maintain the area as a buffer zone and to keep it reasonably undisturbed so as to facilitate the long-term work of the Ringing Group.

There has been virtually no management apart from the clearing and cutting of paths. However, in 1984, the path along the northern boundary was widened to allow access for tractors, as was the southern boundary along Monk's Lode (in 1984).

Development:

1. The flooding problem, if it recurs, could be alleviated by some engineering work.

2. One small field on the boundary at GR 5566 2703 is species- rich, with abundant cowslips (Primula veris). It is managed as a litter field by the owner and should be considered as a desirable extension to the NT property or inclusion in the S.S.S.I. Its flora should be checked.

3. The boundary drove could be linked back to the main drove alongside Monk's Lode to complete a circuit. The paths along the northern and southern boundaries could be linked by creating new paths to join them to the central path near its mid-point. Any changes in access should be checked with the Ringing Group; a Committee decision is needed.

Future management:

1. The drove beside the Poors' Fen, and the central drove should have Level 2 treatment.

2. Trees killed by flooding should be left unless they are dangerous; some are already being used by woodpeckers.

35

Wicken Poors' Fen
Area c. 6 ha.

Description

Adjoins St. Edmund's Fen to the west, is part of the S.S.S.I., but does not belong to the National Trust. Actively dug over and cut until recently, the area remained open into the 1960s. Invasion by Frangula, in particular, was subsequently very rapid, but this has now died back, so that the area is again relatively open. In the mid 1980s the N.C.C. (now English Nature) paid for two trial plots to be cleared of scrub with a view to possibly clearing the whole area. The ground is, however, very uneven, being riddled with peat trenches, and it is unlikely that complete clearance is feasible. The area is now virtually impenetrable.

A3.5 Adventurers' Fen (Compartments 40 - 67 and Pout Hall)

The future management of Adventurers' Fen is currently under review. Research and consultation during 1993 will be drawn together into a proposal of long-term management aims, with specific recommendations for different parts of the Fen. Subject to approval by the Committee, Local Advisory Panel, Regional Committee and English Nature, an Addendum to this Management Plan covering Adventurers' Fen will be produced and implemented in 1994.
A3.5.1 The Charles Raven Reserve (Compartments 40 - 53)
Page Index:
Includes The Mere; the old kilns (79); the reed-beds (see A2.4, A4.5, A6.4); Trust grazing (see C5.3.1); Harrison's and Little Droves (see C5.2).
A3.5.2 Trust arable (Compartments 60 - 67)
Page Index:
Area: about 30 ha.

Description:


Lying between Burwell Lode and Wicken Lode, outside the S.S.S.I. and isolated from it by waterproof banks. It is let on a normal agricultural tenancy (see C1.3, C5.3).

Of limited natural history interest (see C4.4.7, C5.2).

Development:


It may be possible to bring this land in hand and manage it for nature conservation and to act as a buffer for the rest of the Fen. It is dry, however, lying outside the waterproof banks, and it currently brings in useful income.
A3.5.3 Pout Hall Fen
Page Index:
Area: about 9 ha.

Description:


Part of Burwell Fen West, lying at the junction between Reach and Burwell Lodes. Not on the S.S.S.I. Let on a 99 year arable lease, reverting to the Committee around 2050. Recently, the north-western tip has been sublet to Anglian Water: the waterproof bank of Reach/Burwell Lodes has been constructed to cut across the corner, with the result that the corner triangle has been divided from the rest of the land and has been allowed to flood.

Development:


None in the near future. Poplars should be maintained, as a prominent feature of the landscape.

A3.6 Buildings and structures

Details of the buildings and structures are given in Section C6.
The windpump is used for demonstration purposes only; it should be seen turning in full sail on suitable days, as deemed reasonable, during the summer season. It must be maintained in safe working order (see Health & Safety, C8.4).

The brick kiln should be made safe, restored and incorporated into a new social history trail.

The Fen Cottage should be open to the public as prescribed in Section A2.12. The cottage and contents must be kept clean and protected from deterioration, theft, vandalism, damp and fire. The contents inventory and interpretative literature must be kept up to date. Future development of the display is considered in C6.1.4.

The use of the William Thorpe Building and its display are to be considered and redeveloped according to the timetable outlined in C6.2.3.

The use of accommodation afford by the Ganges Hut is to be encouraged. A code of practice for visiting groups for managing the Hut should be drawn up. A cleaner should be engaged after each group visit.

The area between the existing buildings in the Piggeries is to be roofed and a workshop provided in the existing garage. Washing, mess and toilet facilities will also be provided. A secure store for machinery will be necessary, and the whole area should be adequately protected.

The former workshops will be converted into 2 or 3 units for use by long-term volunteers, students and, possibly for holiday lets.

The Museum should be conserved and used for storage or possibly developed as a studio or workshop.

The hides, huts and other small structures are to be maintained. A hut for the Ringing Group is to be provided at the north-east end of the Fen, a wet weather shelter constructed in the Education Area, and a boat shelter built on the Lode near the William Thorpe Building.

The boardwalk must be maintained, replacing slats that become damaged and dangerous. The condition of the walkway should be monitored on a day-to-day basis by Fen staff. Plans for large-scale replacement, extension and any necessary treatment of the walking surface should be kept under review by the Committee (see C6.2.8). The state of the walkway should also be considered as part of the review of policy towards dogs on the Fen (C7.1.13).

Bridges must be inspected regularly (A4.1.1) and maintained. Those required to carry heavy vehicles will be strengthened, and a plan will be issued to all contractors and tenants identifying the accepted access routes onto and around the property.