‘He who tramples on the earth tramples on himself’
So said the Celtic saint Columbanus in the sixth century. There is no need to be of any faith or none to recognise the truth of what the saint realised, everything is interconnected, all is part of the one world we inhabit.
We damage any part at risk to ourselves. Had this been widely appreciated sooner we would not be facing the serious problems we face as the climate changes. So called ‘natural disasters’ such as floods, storms, droughts and wildfires are increasingly severe and widespread. The causes are well established, chiefly our production of CO2 and methane. We are naturally curious and inventive and very often try new things without considering the unwanted consequences. Previous generations felled trees, burnt wood, coal and oil unaware they were trampling on the earth. We are now well aware yet trample where we should tread gently. We can all act to reduce our trampling. Those who develop new things, fuels, farming techniques, medicines or non-biodegradable materials for example, must tread with great caution. The ice may be very thin.
The work party on 5th October was at Hurston Warren SSSI to remove more invasive plants from this valuable heathland. The next work party meets at 10.00am on 9th November on Chantry Hill to continue clearing the damaging scrub from important chalk grassland. Many hands make light work, so new volunteers are made very welcome. No experience necessary. As ever sharing transport where possible. A refreshment break gives time for a chat.
On 2nd November we have our 35th AGM, Talk and Tea at the Village Hall at 2.00pm. The speaker is Dr Nick Sturt, Chairman of Sussex Botanical Recording Society. His subject is ‘The Wild Flowers of the Arun Valley’. All are welcome to join the meeting, entrance fee £4.
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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