Lunt Meadows nature reserve volunteer group receive donation

Lunt Meadows Wetland Nature Reserve has received a welcomed donation from United Utilities’ Community Fund.

The volunteer group at Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve works tirelessly to maintain and encourage the health of the reserve and its diverse habitats, with 22 volunteers coming together every week to upkeep this critical wetland ecosystem, home to a variety of wildlife and habitats.

The team at Lunt Meadows contribute to a variety of conservation tasks, including habitat creation, wildlife monitoring, vegetation management, and small construction projects around the reserve. The volunteers also provide guided walks for the public and contribute to the daily care of livestock used for conservation grazing.

In addition to their regular duties, the volunteers play a key role in tackling invasive species like Ragwort and Himalayan Balsam, which have been brought in by drainage and floodwaters. The group also helps maintain infrastructure such as wildlife viewing platforms, hides, and fencing, ensuring that the reserve remains a safe and accessible place for wildlife and visitors alike.

Keen to support the group in their efforts, United Utilities provided the group with a range of tools to help them continue their work safely and efficiently.

Peter Olson, Lead Volunteer at Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve, commented: “We’re extremely grateful for the support that United Utilities has provided – it’s a great feeling to have our efforts recognised and supported.

“We often borrow tools from the other reserves volunteer groups, and when we can't access them, it means our work may be delayed. With this donation, we are now able to complete our tasks efficiently, benefiting both the reserve and the wildlife that depend on it.”

Mark Booth, Area Engagement Lead for Merseyside at United Utilities added: “The volunteer group’s continued efforts ensure that Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve remains a vital part of Merseyside’s natural heritage. Hopefully our donation will encourage the group to keep up the fantastic work - from all of us here at United Utilities, we want to say a huge thank you to the team for their hard work and dedication.”

United Utilities aims to support proactive community groups that work to enhance and protect local environments.

The United Utilities Community Fund provides up to £2,500 to projects that focus on:

• Local watercourses
• Environmental wellbeing
• Sustainable drainage

Community groups that are interested in applying for support can email: Stakeholderrelations@uuplc.co.uk.