An important step forward for the future of the Island’s farm ponds has been taken this autumn. Lough Gat-y-Whing one of the Island’s largest traditional farm ponds has now been partially restored by the Wildflowers of Mann Project with the help of many of volunteers. With work parties going throughout the past three months, this three acre pond that had completely silted up and was nearly completely covered in scrub is now nearly halfway to being restored. Restoration comes by cutting down and burning the scrub and whinching out many of the stumps. This will uncover a seed bed in the silt that should germinate in the spring allowing long-lost plant species to re-establish themselves. Records from the 1930’s and before, indicate that the site was once one of the most flower-rich on the Island with both species of native waterlily as well as many other aquatic and marginal species. In time and with traditional sheep and cattle access, the pond will recover much of the biodiversity it has lost over the past fourty years, including the rare pennyroyal, one of the Island’s most endangered plants. The open water should also benefit other wildlife such as frogs, ducks, dragonflies and many other pond creatures. This pond will be the first in its ‘Dubs for Wildlife’ campagin to ensure farm ponds in the North of the Island retain their vital and rare wildlife for future generations. The Wildflowers of Mann Project extends its greatful thanks to those who have given up their time to work in all weathers to make this restoration possible. ENDS