Meeting details

Leaders: John Norton and Andrew Branson

A revisit to an area last looked at by the Wessex Bryology Group in 2012. It consists of an extensive area of seepages around the north side of an unusual rocky plateau (Bisterne, east of Burley), which drains via runnels into the Mill Lawn Brook (a tributary of the Ober Water). The water is slightly calcareous or mineral-rich in places which helps support a very bryophyte-rich mire vegetation. No fewer than 13 species of Sphagnum have been recorded, including S. subsecundum, S. molle and S. squarrosum, though a few more might also be present. Other species of interest include Campylium stellatum, Sarmentypnum exannulatum and three Scorpidium spp., plus a good range of bog liverworts including Mylia anomala and New Forest specialists such as Fossombronia foveolata and Splachnum ampullaceum. The aim of the visit will be to explore a wider area than previously, if possible covering SU2303, east of where the previous visit took place. Other habitats to explore if there is time include acid grassland, stream bank, willow carr and woodland.

Wellingtons are essential; we will be wading through waterlogged boggy ground for much of the time.

Meet at Mill Lawn car park SU22400339. From the A31 at Picket Post follow signs to Burley and proceed through Burley Street. On reaching the village centre turn left at the junction and immediately left again onto Chapel Lane; after 600m turn right onto Beechwood Lane and after 800m left onto Mill Lane. The car park is on the right after 300m.

If you’d like to come along, please email Andrew Branson (andrew@(at)3alpacas.co.uk).