More the merrier at pond-dipping

Published on 3rd August 2006 in News

Friends of Oakhill are inviting people to discover the strange and hidden world of underwater life.

They have organised a pond-dipping event this Saturday, August 5, meeting at 2pm in The Courtyard car park.

All equipment is provided and there is no charge. Please wear stout shoes as there is a good walk to the pond before dipping can start.

Among the wildlife that could be encountered are dragon and damsel fly larvae.

These voracious predators feed on tadpoles and even small fish, before crawling out of the water to change miraculously into spectacular adult insects. A range of other weird and wonderful insects is also waiting to be discovered.

The event is run in partnership with the East Riding of Yorkshire Council?s Countryside Service who are supporting Friends of Oakhill?s summer events programme.

Countryside Access Officer Christopher Dickinson said: ?These events are a great opportunity to get out in to the countryside and discover the rich diversity of wildlife that we have at Oakhill.?

Law enforcement patrols

Latest news regarding Oakhill has seen Humberside Police, East Riding of Yorkshire Council, the Environment Agency and Friends of Oakhill joining forces to patrol the ponds.

The area from the Brick Ponds to beyond Oakhill Pond is designated to become a 150-acre country park. Plans include footpaths, educational and other visitor facilities, including access for disabled people and a visitor centre.

Patrols have been started to ensure that the site is protected by the full range of law-enforcement authorities.

The Environment Agency enforces fisheries laws, whilst the Council and Police are on patrol to deal with other offences such as the use of off-road vehicles.

Chairman of the Friends of Oakhill, Kester Dean, said: ?We?re working together to protect this special piece of countryside ready for it to become a country park.?