No doubt we were all shocked by the wild fires in California. But we should not have been surprised. While we sympathise with those whose lives have been turned upside down and admire the bravery of the firefighters, we need to understand the causes. Climate change brought an exceptional dry spell and abnormally high winds which created the circumstances for such devastation. The recent record breaking high winds to hit the British Isles are further examples. There is a prophetic saying ‘He who sows the wind reaps the whirlwind’. We have been sowing the atmosphere with CO2 and methane for generations. For about a generation we have been warned by experts that damaging climate change is inevitable if we continue to produce these gases. Yet we carry on producing more and more. There is an appropriate term ‘Authors of our own misfortune’. While those who have the smallest carbon footprint (they are not the main authors of their misfortune) usually suffer most e.g. from drought and floods, but the wildfires show that no-one is immune. And of course wildfires contribute to the greenhouse gases. A vicious circle. The abnormal weather becomes the norm.
The restoration of heathland at Sullington Warren and grassland at Chantry Hill continued in January on Thursdays. On Saturday 1st February the work party met at Foxmead Court, Manleys Hill to clear the pond and surroundings of unwanted vegetation, which was appreciated by the residents. On 1st March, again at 10.00am, we work on Chantry Hill to continue the preservation of the ancient grassland by clearing self seeded saplings. Not least for the benefit of native butterflies. As usual, like-minded conservationists are welcome to join us. We meet at Greyfriars Stables, sharing transport where possible.
For information about this and our other activities, or on becoming a member, or offering advice, please get in touch with Chairman Mick Denness on 01903 745971, or see our website. www.storringtonconservation.org.uk.
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