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Ballard Meadow and Woodland is located a few hundred metres north of the busy town centre of New Milton, to the west of Ballard Lake. The site is a tranquil oasis and wildlife haven. Much respected by local people, both the meadow and woodland provide easy access for all for a gentle stroll, a place to observe wildlife or to pause and reflect.

The meadow, together with Woar Copse is classified as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation and maintained on a day-to-day basis by the Friends of Ballard Water Meadow (FBWM). We follow a Management Plan, written by the FBWM and agreed with New Milton Town Council as the landholder.

Constant maintenance is required and is undertaken by the FBWM, jointly with the Town Council and the support of local residents. During the period September to February, our volunteer effort is helped by a few cows that graze the meadow.

How to get involved

If you would like to help in this valuable work you can become a member of the FBWM. Membership is open to all and costs £5.00 per year for a family. Members receive a welcome pack, a quarterly newsletter and are invited to attend our advertised events, Members’ Day and Annual General Meeting. As a not-for-profit group, we rely on monies raised through membership subscriptions and donations to fund the work we do to benefit wildlife and the people of New Milton. Member or not, everyone is welcome to enjoy the wildlife, peace and tranquillity of Ballard Meadow and Woodland.

In addition, you are welcome to help our conservation management work by joining our working groups on Fridays (09.30-12.30) or Sundays (10.30-12.30). We meet at our workbase through the metal gate at the western end of Lake Grove Road (Postcode: BH25 5LA or What Three Words: zaps.flame.reclusive).

Further Information

For more information, please contact one of the FBWM Committee below:

Bob Lord (Chairman)

07905 249587 / robertlord123@btinternet.com

Pam Petherbridge (Treasurer and Membership Secretary)

07484 830772 / pampetherbridge8@gmail.com

Charlotte Moonan (Secretary)

07789 095019 / lottiemoon15@gmail.com

Mandy Hayes (Community Engagement)

07552 834770 / mandyhayes.tiptoe@btinternet.com