Quarr Local Nature Reserve

Maintenance of the Quarr

The Quarr is owned by Sherborne Town Council and they are charged with the general maintenance of the site, ie. hedge cutting, grass mowing, clearing undergrowth and repairs to paths and fixtures. However, since 2004, a Friends of the Quarr Group has been set up to oversee the management priorities of the nature reserve. They receive their funding from Sherborne Town Council and receive advice from wildlife experts within the county.

Although it has always been a space used by the community in many ways, it is now managed to maximise its wildlife potential. This is why there is less grass cutting than before. The priority now is to provide as many habitats as possible within the 4 acre site and to enhance those that already exist. This leads to more clearing of bramble around young trees, coppicing and tree felling to prevent overcrowding as the trees mature. Many grants have been received from a variety of bodies to help with this. In addition, the work of the Town Council is enhanced by visits from a number of volunteer groups providing particular services.

These activities are directed by the original management plan drawn up in 2004. They also accommodate the presence of dogs on site even though it is a nature reserve. However, community use involves everyone, and dog-walkers are some of the strongest supporters of the Quarr, and they are most welcome – especially when they tidy up afterwards!