Hangar Marsh is a modestly sized wetlands area in Salcombe that includes reedbeds, a sizeable pond and areas of willow scrub. The area has been managed to support the local wildlife since the 1990s, and is currently being restored and maintained by ParkLife South West.
Wetlands provide a specialist habitat for wildlife, and have sadly had a diminishing presence in South Devon. The pond and streams at Hangar Marsh, specifically, provide food and shelter for a variety of small mammals, birds, insects, and plants.
Various species of wildlife can be found in wetland areas around the south coast. For example, birds such as reed buntings live here year round, and reed warblers migrate to the area to breed during the summer months. For these birds that subsist on a diet that includes seeds and insects, wetlands provide an excellent source of food.
Additionally, small mammals, such as water voles, make their home in soft banks in wetlands. Wetlands are valuable source of food for water voles, providing the vegetation and invertebrate species that make up their diet. Over the last century, they have sadly suffered the most significant decline in population of any mammal in the UK. They play a vital role in maintaining a healthy wetland, as their burrowing and feeding creates conditions that allow other wildlife and plants to survive.
The reedbeds found in wetlands are also extremely important for mitigating climate change and reducing pollution. They naturally filter and clean water, trapping sediments and provide excellent flood defences. Reedbeds also absorb carbon, which makes their preservation so important – it is vital that they be preserved to prevent the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
We are very grateful to the community members who have, over the last few years, become actively involved in enhancing and maintaining Hangar Marsh. Volunteers have worked hard in several areas of the marsh, including working to cut and rake the reedbed, control invasive plants, maintain the pond. Students from Ivybridge Community College helped to build leaky woody dams to raise the water level at the marsh.
Working on behalf of the landowner, South Hams District Council, ParkLife is coordinating volunteers from the community to continue the restoration of Hangar Marsh in February and March. If you’re interested in helping out, contact us at office@parklifesw.org.uk or visit our website for more information!