Winner of last year's Muckin4Life competition, Ilene Sterns, photographed conservation work undertaken on Lundy Island- a small offshore nature reserve in the south west of England.
Lundy Island in summer is a photographers’ paradise. The blue of the Bristol Channel provides a gorgeous backdrop to the wild flowers bursting into bloom. In late spring Pink Sea Thrift carpets the West Side cliffs and the vibrant yellow blossoms of the rare Lundy Cabbage begin to appear. In fact, Lundy is the only place in the world where you can see this primitive brassica, which until recently was on the brink of extinction. But thanks to the hard work of dedicated conservation volunteers, the future of Lundy Cabbage has been assured.
Ilene Sterns’ photograph of Lundy Field Society volunteers clearing invasive rhododendron illustrates the importance of conservation volunteering on Lundy. Once the rhododendron has been removed, the Lundy Cabbage soon begins to regenerate. And since Lundy Cabbage is the sole food source for both the Lundy Cabbage Flea Beetle and the Lundy Cabbage Weevil, more Lundy Cabbage means a more secure future for both insects.
Lundy is always keen to attract new conservation volunteers, and the island’s unique environment and beautiful setting result in many repeat visitors. Derek Green, General Manager of The Lundy Co Ltd, describes volunteers on Lundy as “an important part of the team.” He says, “We can always do with the extra help in much of the work undertaken on the Island. Island work is varied and many find their stay a rewarding experience. The work depends on the time of year, but could involve any number of tasks from rhododendron clearance (known as rhodi bashing), dry stone walling, ragwort control or garden maintenance.”
Lundy’s Warden, Nicola Saunders, welcomes conservation volunteers to the island either as individuals or as members of working parties organised by The National Trust (www.nationaltrust.org.uk) or the Lundy Field Society (www.lundy.org.uk). Nicola says, “We have many volunteer groups visiting Lundy each year and the work that they do is essential to achieving our goals.” She goes on to describe what makes Lundy such a special place: "Lundy is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and the UK's only Marine Conservation Zone and as such it is a site of national importance. For such a small island we have an amazing biodiversity of habitats and species with numerous conservation objectives, both terrestrial and marine.”
Conservation volunteering is a great way to enjoy the beauty of Lundy whilst at the same time helping wildlife and the environment. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Nicola Saunders at Warden@lundyisland.co.uk or by phone on 01237 431 831 ext 225.
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