Management

Following the initial planting of the wildflower meadow in May 2004, very few of the original wildflowers survived due to the high nutrient content of the soil at that time.

 In 2006 Sleaford Town Council approached the Friends of Mareham Pastures with a view to taking responsibility for some aspects of managing Mareham Pastures Local Nature Reserve.

 The Town Council took charge of the wildflower meadow and planted yellow rattle towards the end of 2006.  Since then the council undertake regular early cutting of the meadow to encourage the growth of wildflowers and have plans to plant more species in the future.  The wildflower meadow is just beginning to thrive as a result of regular mowing and removal of the cut grass, which has gradually reduced the nutrient content of the soil.

 The Town Council in conjunction with North Kesteven District Council also look after the maintenance of the dog waste bin at Mareham Pastures.  This is another very valuable contribution to the management of the site which makes a visit to the Mareham Pastures a pleasure for human, canine and wildlife visitors alike.