Fog on the Oval & Fisher Row clarification

A pre- work quick visit (7.30 to 8am) to the Lowestoft Oval revealed a very fog shrouded Oval with the cricket pitch hosting a group of Wood Pigeons and a fine White Wagtail. Both the newly arrived Blackcaps and Willow Warblers were very vociferous this morning, 3 of each were heard and 2 male Blackcaps were also seen.

Having conducted some research on the flood alleviation project at Fisher Row. The work is being done to undertake riverbank strengthening and erosion and protect the area from future flooding and reduce the risk of bank breaches. The Broads Authority awarded the contract to Broadland Environmental Services Ltd and they extensively consulted with wildlife organisations including the RSPB and the Suffolk Wildlife Trust. 

Some soke dykes have been created there is one running parallel to the river which will eventually provide additional habitat for species such as Water Voles. I have been assured that uncommon species such as Water Vole will be trapped and sensitively released nearby so they won't be affected by the work. 

The muddy area "desert" that I alluded to earlier is only temporary and will soon revert back to marsh. So I have been reassured on certain points but I am still mystified why the work couldn't be done outside the breeding season and why the remaining trees had to be cut down?