Thanks to volunteers at 32 conservation work parties more than 2,000 wildflowers have been planted including wetland and heath species, over 9,000 young trees have been kept weed free, bracken has been bashed, and walls, fences, and way markers have been repaired. 

A team of cattle checkers visited the nature reserve 111 times to make sure the herd of Luing cattle were happy and healthy, and that boundary walls and fences were in good condition. They also recorded the behaviour of the cattle at different times of day, in different weather conditions, and made a note of wildlife sightings.

People brought specialist knowledge and skills too, helping to monitor the flower rich meadows and grasslands to see how habitats are improving year on year, or carrying out bird surveys to see what species are breeding or present on the nature reserve.

Volunteers have also shared their enthusiasm and knowledge by leading guided walks and cycle rides that give visitors an overview of the nature reserve, what makes it special, and the work that is being carried out to make it a better place for wildlife and people.

Imogen Rutter, Eycott Hill Reserve and Training Officer said: “The volunteers at Eycott Hill Nature Reserve are fantastic and give so much, from sharing knowledge and expertise, to getting their hands dirty repairing dry stone walls or planting wildflowers. We couldn’t achieve nearly as much without them and their contributions make a direct difference to wildlife in Cumbria.”